Reducing Tensions and Violence in Occupied West Bank: Biden’s Call for Action

Meeting Between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

In a recent meeting between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden emphasized the urgent need to reduce tensions and violence in the Occupied West Bank. The meeting took place during the Seventy-eighth session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Immediate Measures for Security and Economic Improvement

Biden stressed the importance of taking immediate measures to improve the security and economic situation in the region. He also highlighted the need to maintain the viability of the two-state solution and work towards a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. The White House issued a statement expressing these goals after the leaders’ meeting.

Fulfilling Obligations and Avoiding Unilateral Actions

President Biden called on all parties involved to fulfill their obligations as agreed upon in previous meetings held in Aqaba, Jordan, and Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. This includes refraining from taking further unilateral measures that could escalate tensions in the region.

Concerns about Changes to the Democratic System in Israel

Biden reiterated his concerns about any fundamental changes to the democratic system in Israel without wider consensus. This was seen as a reference to Netanyahu and his government’s efforts to reform the Israeli judiciary, which has raised questions about the country’s system of checks and balances.

Tensions between Allies

This meeting marked the first time President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu sat down together since Biden’s election. Tensions between the two allies have escalated due to Biden’s public opposition to Netanyahu’s legal efforts. Critics argue that these efforts could undermine the country’s system of checks and balances.

Invitation for Continued Cooperation

Biden invited Netanyahu to visit Washington before the end of the year to continue direct cooperation on various bilateral issues. The White House emphasized the unbreakable bond between the two countries, based on shared democratic values and the United States’ firm commitment to Israel’s security.

Creating a Prosperous and Peaceful Middle East

During the meeting, President Biden also discussed progress towards creating a more integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Middle East region. This includes efforts to deepen and broaden normalization with other countries in the region.