From Haaretz: Israel is to issue a request shortly to allow it to join a NATO operation in the Mediterranean aimed to prevent the passage of terrorists and weapons of mass destruction as well as improve the security of the region’s shipping industry.

The cabinet approved the recommendation made by the Israel Defense Forces and the navy to join the operation – dubbed Active Endeavour – last Wednesday when it was presented. Israel is not a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization; however, other non-members are taking part in the operation, including ships from Russia and Ukraine.