The U.S. and Israeli navies conducted a joint search-and-rescue exercise in the Mediterranean Sea last week. The four-day exercise, known as Reliant Mermaid, included the use of live fire, and the U.S. participants included Aegis guided-missile destroyers of the type that would in theory be used to help defend Israel against Iranian missiles. But the exercise didn't include any missile interceptions - though such interceptions are supposed to be part of a bigger joint exercise in another two months.
Though the exercise is supposed to take place annually, this is actually the first time it has taken place in three years.
Nothing to worry about here. It's just an irregular, regular thing. America's tampering in global affairs wouldn't end with a Romney-Ryan tickert. Paul Ryan offered:
Let me be really clear. Under President Romney, our adversaries will think twice about challenging America and our allies because we believe in peace through strength. There will be no daylight between America and our friends around the world.
It harkens back to President George W. Bush's clipped speech and mentality of "you're either with us, or against us."
