qualitative military edge , '' Panetta said . `` As they take risks for peace , we will be able to provide the security that they will need in order to ensure that they can have the room hopefully to negotiate . '' Panetta said he plans to offer U.S. help to Israel to improve its deteriorating relationships with some of its neighbors , particularly Turkey and Egypt . `` It 's pretty clear , that at this dramatic time in the Middle East when there have been so many changes , that it is not a good situation for Israel to become increasingly isolated . And that 's what 's happening , '' Panetta said . `` And I think for the security of that region , it 's very important that we do everything possible to try to help them re-establish relations with countries like Turkey and with Egypt . '' Turkey and Israel have been at odds following the deaths of nine Turkish activists during an Israeli commando raid last year on the SS Mavi Marmara , part of a flotilla of ships that was headed to blockaded Gaza . Last month , Turkish Prime Minister Recep
-LRB- CNN -RRB- -- U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta warned that Israel must improve its relations with neighboring countries , saying the country is becoming increasingly isolated in the region . Panetta made the comments ahead of his arrival Monday in Israel , where he will meet with Israeli and Palestinian leaders in an effort to jump start peace talks . `` I do n't think there is any question in talking with leaders from Israel that they recognize that they 've becoming increasingly isolated in that part of the world , and that 's not ... a good situation , '' Panetta told reporters while en route late Sunday to Israel . `` I think they recognize that it 's important to do whatever they can to try to improve those relations . '' Tensions in the region have been running high in recent weeks over the Palestinian Authority 's bid for statehood before the United Nations , and Israel 's plans to build 1,100 new homes in disputed territory in south Jerusalem . `` The important thing there is to again reaffirm our strong security relationship with Israel , to make clear that we will protect their