According to the White House, US President Joe Biden spoke on the phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and explained to him his vision of a two-state solution. In the conversation, Biden discussed his vision of Israel’s lasting peace and security in the region, said National Security Council Communications Director John Kirby.
Although Netanyahu has expressed his concerns, Biden still firmly believes that a two-state solution is the right path. “We’re not going to agree on every issue,” Kirby said. Good friends and allies could have these types of open and candid discussions.
In open contradiction to the USA, Netanyahu rejected a Palestinian state after the end of the Gaza war. With a view to a two-state solution at the urging of the US, Netanyahu said he must be able to say “no” when necessary, even to best friends. Kirby now said this will not change Biden’s view that the best long-term solution for regional security, particularly the security of the Israeli people, is a free and independent Palestinian state. The USA would continue to promote it.
Biden emphasizes Israel’s responsibility for civilians
Biden was optimistic, at least publicly. When asked by a reporter at an event in Washington whether a two-state solution would be impossible while Netanyahu was in office, Biden replied, “No, it is not,” according to the press in attendance. He thinks that a solution will be found. There are “different types of two-state solutions.”
According to information from Washington, the phone call – according to observers the first in almost four weeks – also covered other topics, such as the transition of the Israeli offensive towards more targeted military operations. Biden also addressed Israel’s responsibility to reduce the damage to the civilian population.
During the conversation, the US President also welcomed the Israeli government’s decision to allow aid deliveries via the port of Ashdod, it said. Teams from both countries worked separately on options for a more direct delivery of aid by sea to the Gaza Strip.
