Washington hoping Iran will back off after Wednesday exchange of fire, including bombings to destroy rocket launchers used to target American troops in Deir Ezzour

Defense minister to meet CENTCOM chief, US national security adviser before heading to Japan; ex-PM Bennett issues last-minute appeal to Biden not to sign new nuclear agreement

PM highlights Jerusalem Declaration signed by Biden, says it 'assures the qualitative advantage of the Israeli security establishment' in face of the Iranian nuclear threat

Visit follows recent 'war games' discussion between visiting CENTCOM delegation and senior IDF officers; Biden viewed Israeli defense tech during visit last week

Defense minister hopes pact will expand with Biden's visit to Saudi Arabia; says Israel has 'powerful' responses ready amid efforts by Tehran to target Israeli tourists in Turkey

2021 updates to regulations on leave travel prevent participation in Birthright, vacation in Israel; spokeswoman insists changes entirely COVID-related

Defense minister and president also meet outgoing CENTCOM commander McKenzie, who oversees American forces in region

American general will sit down with IDF chief and top officials ahead of his retirement in the coming months

'Desert Falcon' exercise is latest cooperation between IDF and America's Middle East-focused Central Command

Erik Kurilla gained extensive experience in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars