Biden to welcome new Israeli leader to White House

President Biden will host Prime Minister Naftali Bennett of Israel at the White House on Aug. 26, two months after he took office.

“Prime Minister Bennett’s visit will strengthen the enduring partnership between the United States and Israel, reflect the deep ties between our governments and our people, and underscore the United States’ unwavering commitment to Israel’s security,” White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in a statement on Wednesday.

She added that Biden and Bennett will discuss regional and global security issues, including Iran. 

“The visit will also be an opportunity for the two leaders to discuss efforts to advance peace, security, and prosperity for Israelis and Palestinians and the importance of working towards a more peaceful and secure future for the region,” she said. 

Bennett took office in June and replaced the long-time prime minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, who had a close alliance with former President Trump.

In May, Biden called Netanyahu to push for deescalation and halting of military strikes against Hamas in Gaza after 11 days of deadly fighting. Biden has been committed to a two-state solution for Palestine and Israel. 

Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Jerusalem in May for a face-to-face meeting with Netanyahu. Blinken also met with the new Israeli foreign minister, Yair Lapid, in Rome in June to discuss the relationship between the U.S. and the new government.