US President Biden meets with Opposition Leader Netanyahu

Netanyahu tells reporters that two spoke about the Iranian threat. The meeting, which lasted about 15 minutes, was held on the heels of Biden's meeting with President Isaac Herzog.

by ILH Staff

Published on 07-14-2022 18:48

Last modified: 07-14-2022 18:48

US President Joe Biden, who is on a two-day visit to Israel, met with Opposition Leader Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday afternoon, in Jerusalem.

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The meeting, which lasted about 15 minutes, was held on the heels of Biden's meeting with President Isaac Herzog.

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Speaking with reporters, Netanyahu described that meeting as "warm" and "excellent," and stresses Bident's "truly unwavering commitment to Israel."

Confirming that they spoke about Iran, the former prime minister said, "We've been friends for 40 years, but to ensure the next 40 years, we must deal with the Iranian threat.

"He knows my position," Netanyahu continued. "I told Biden that economic sanctions are not enough, there is a need for a credible military option. If Iran isn't deterred, that military option has to be used. That's my position, that's my commitment, and I hope that this is the American position. He said he agreed, and I was pleased to hear it."

Netanyahu was also present at the state ceremony welcoming Biden to Israel on Wednesday, at Ben Gurion International Airport. The American president spent a few minutes with Netanyahu, shaking his hands and exchanging what were visibly warm words.

Biden and Netanyahu have a long history as diplomats going back to 1980s when Biden served as senator and Netanyahu was the Israeli consul in Washington.