SoD Gates scheduled in Israel for a "secret visit"...

Maariv, via the Pulse, here

"Secretary of Defense Robert Gates is scheduled to arrive in Israel for a secret visit, probably in approximately two weeks.

Gates will arrive for talks on security issues, most importantly the issue of the Iranian nuclear program, ...It is believed that Gates will arrive on July 27, after Barak returns from his vacation. A senior diplomatic source confirmed the visit.

A visit to Israel by the US secretary of defense is dramatic and meaningful at a time that the United States is toughening its stance towards Iran. ..... A senior diplomatic source estimated yesterday that Gates' arrival might be intended to pressure Iran into taking up the gauntlet and launching a dialog with the United States..."