President Joe Biden put pressure on the Israeli Prime Minister on Thursday, Benjamin Netanyahuto reach a ceasefire in Gaza “soon”, after a handshake at the White House that masked a complicated relationship.
The two leaders smiled for the cameras as they met in the Oval Office, four days after Biden, 81, announced he was dropping out of the race for re-election.
“From a proud Zionist Jew to a proud Irish-American Zionist, I want to thank you for 50 years of public service and 50 years of support for the State of Israel.”Netanyahu said in tribute to Biden at the start of the meeting. “And I look forward to speaking with you today and working with you in the months ahead.”he added.
The White House says that Biden will continue to push for a ceasefire agreement and the release of hostages between Israel and Hamas.
He believes that Netanyahu is not closed to a deal despite his fiery speech to the US Congress on Wednesday in which he promised a “total victory” against Hamas.
Biden will reiterate to the prime minister that “he believes we have to reach an agreement, and we have to reach an agreement soon,” the National Security Council spokesman told reporters. John Kirby.
“We can reach an agreement, but it will require, as always, some leadership, some commitment and some effort to achieve it.”he added.
Biden and Netanyahu later met with the families of American hostages held in Gaza, many of whom have called on Netanyahu for a ceasefire deal.
Near the White House, a group of protesters chanted slogans against the visit after the controversy sparked by a demonstration the day before.
Meeting between Netanyahu and Kamala Harris
But Netanyahu, 74, also met separately with Vice President and likely Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, evidence of the new political reality in the United States.
During the meeting, Harris conveyed to the Israeli leader her “deep concern” for the victims of Gaza. “We cannot look the other way in the face of these tragedies. We cannot allow ourselves to become insensitive to the suffering and I will not remain silent,” she said.
Harris has been outspoken about Gaza in the past and there has been speculation she could take a tougher approach toward Israel, though government sources deny there are any differences between her and Biden.
Kamala Harris and Netanyahu (3).JPG
Reuters
Biden reappeared after withdrawing his candidacy
Biden reappeared in public on Wednesday, after his resignation from the Democratic Party candidacy. From the Oval Office, the US president gave a speech in which he stressed that “The defense of democracy is more important than any title“.
During his speech, Biden explained the reasons for his withdrawal from the candidacy and asked for the support for Vice President Harris, likely Democratic candidate.
“I believe my record as president, my leadership in the world, my vision for the future of America, all deserved a second term. But nothing, nothing can stop the salvation of our democracy, and that includes personal ambition.“the Democratic representative said.
In turn, Biden stressed his “love” for the position, but showed his support for Harris, his possible replacement: “The best way to move forward is to pass the torch to a new generation as it is the best way to unite our nation.“he concluded.
Source: Ambito
