[US Media: The United States Considers Long-Term Troop Deployment in Israeli Occupied Territories] Golden Finance reported on May 10, citing Iran's Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) and Israeli media "Israel Today," that following a joint military operation by the US and Israel against Iran, the US is considering establishing a long-term military presence in the occupied territories. Given the close cooperation between the Israeli and US militaries, Israeli officials believe the US is contemplating relocating troops stationed in other countries in the region to Israel or at least maintaining a significant long-term troop presence. A senior Israeli official stated: "There are US troops here, and they will not leave in the near or distant future. They have recognized that Israel is a convenient fortress for operations—relatively far from major threats and well-protected by air defense systems." (Dongxin News Agency)