Biden calls Bennett, world leaders congratulate new Israeli gov't

Source: The Jerusalem Post

June 14, 2021 at 09:13

The US "remains unwavering in its support for Israel's security," Biden said, saying that the US government is committed to working with the new Israeli government

World leaders congratulated Prime Minister Naftali Bennet and Alternate Prime Minister Yair Lapid on forming a new government after being sworn in on Sunday evening. US President Joe Biden congratulated Bennett in a phone call late Sunday night, and expressed his wishes to further strengthen ties between the two countries.

On the call, Bennett thanked Biden for his congratulatory message and for his long-standing commitment to Israel and its security.

Bennett also thanked Biden for his support during Operation Guardian of the Walls, the most recent escalation between Israel and terror groups in the Gaza Strip, and that he considers him an ally.

The two leaders emphasized the importance of the alliance between Israel and the United States, as well as their commitment to strengthening ties between the two countries and to maintaining the security of the State of Israel.

"On behalf of the American people, I congratulate Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Alternate Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, and all the members of the new Israeli cabinet," Biden said in a statement released moments after the new government was sworn in."

Israel has no better friend than the United States," he continued. "The bond that unites our people is evidence of our shared values and decades of close cooperation."

The US "remains unwavering in its support for Israel's security," Biden said, saying that the US government is committed to working with the new Israeli government.

He concluded, "My administration is fully committed to working with the new Israeli government to advance security, stability, and peace for Israelis, Palestinians, and people throughout the broader region."

"Thank you, Mr. President!" Bennett tweeted in response to Biden's comment. "I look forward to working with you to strengthen ties between our two countries."

Lapid also spoke at night with Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and discussed the importance of maintaining a ceasefire in Gaza, according to the US State Department spokesman Ned Price.

They also addressed the importance of promoting normalization agreements between Israel and Arab countries as well as the Iranian issue. The two top diplomats spoke about the "special" relationship between the US and Israel.Blinken invited his Israeli counterpart to Washington.

Vice President of the United States Kamal Harris tweeted on Monday: "We look forward to working closely with Israel’s new government to build on the strong bonds between our two countries and advance security and peace for Israelis and Palestinians."

Congratulations to Israel’s new Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Alternate Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, and everyone in the new Israeli cabinet.
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) June 13, 2021