Netanyahu ‘greatly’ appreciates Musk’s ‘contribution to humanity’
After speaking on the phone with Musk, Netanyahu calls him “a person whose intelligence and contribution to humanity I greatly appreciate.” In his account of their “long” conversation, the prime minister says the two discussed artificial intelligence – something Netanyahu says he wants more of for Israel, and plans to convene a team about it. He adds:
[Musk] expressed his view that Israel could become a significant global player in the field. Just as we turned Israel into a global cyber power, we will also do so in artificial intelligence.
Obama, Netanyahu meet
Minister Netanyahu meets with President Obama about the security of Israel. President Obama says that Israel’s security is a primary focus of his administration and he’s committed to using the resources of the United States to help keep Israel safe.
As I’ve said repeatedly, the security of Israel is one of my top foreign policy priorities and that has expressed itself not only in words but in deeds. We have closer military intelligence cooperation than any two administrations in history. The military assistance that we provide we consider not only an important part of our obligation to the security of the state of Israel but also an important part of US security infrastructure in the region as we make sure that one of our closest allies can not only protect itself but can also work with us in deterring terrorism and other security threats.
Prime Minister Netanyahu also expresses his appreciation of the strong bond that exists between the United States and Israel.
We’re with each other in more ways than one and I want to thank you for this opportunity to strengthen our friendship which is strong and strengthen our alliance which is strong.
Kerry reaffirms support of Israel
According to the State Department, Kerry phones to reaffirm the U.S.’s commitment to the security of Israel. Kerry and Netanyahu discussed a number of issues, including worries about reports of possible future Russian military buildup in Syria.
The secetary and the prime minister reiterated the need to continue pushing back on Iran’s destabilizing activities in the region, and he agreed to continue to have these discussions in the coming weeks. The secretary reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to Israel’s security and continued military and security relationship.
Will not allow Israel to be ‘submerged’ by refugees
Netanyahu rejects calls by Mahmoud Abbas and opposition leader Isaac Herzog to let more Syrian refugees enter Israel, and says that a 30-kilometre fence will be constructed across the Jordan border.
We will not allow Israel to be submerged by a wave of illegal migrants and terrorist activists. Israel is not indifferent to the human tragedy of Syrian and African refugees… but Israel is a small country — very small — without demographic or geographic depth. That is why we must control our borders.
Netanyahu on Iran Agreement
Prime Minister Netanyahu continues to verbally oppose the Iran Nuclear Agreement. He states that as the leader of the only Jewish state, he feels it is his duty to make sure that state remains protected and safe against current and potential future danger.
I have great respect for our intelligence services, they’re the best in the world, Israel’s, the U.S. And UK. Yet, all of three of us didn’t see for a long time the nuclear bunkers, we didn’t see the Syrian work on a nuclear reactor that was almost operational when we discovered it.
Israel: Treaty does not promote peace process
Israel is releases a statement about the Vatican’s treaty recognizing Palestine as a State.
This move does not promote the peace process and distances the Palestinian leadership from returning to direct and bilateral negotiations. Israel will study the agreement and will consider its steps accordingly.
Deal threatens Israel
Netanyahu tells Obama that Israel opposes the nuclear framework agreement with Iran.
A deal that is based on this framework will threaten Israel’s existence… The alternative is to stand firmly and increase pressure on Iran until a better deal is reached.
Obama reacts to Netanyahu’s statement
President Obama states he will re-evaluate the relationship the U.S. has with Israel in light of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s statement that he will never allow a two-state solution. Press Secretary:
The United States will re-evaluate our approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It has been the longstanding policy of the United States that a two-state solution is the best way to address this conflict. The president still holds that view. [Netanyahu’s statement] undermines the values of democratic ideals that have been important to our democracy and an important part of what binds the United States and Israel together.
Sign Wye Agreement
Netanyahu and Arafat sign the Wye River Agreement. The agreement is a land-for-peace deal which is signed after a 21-hour discussion between the two parties mediated by US president Bill Clinton. Jordan’s King Hussein, is also in attendance, assisting in the negotiations. Netanyahu:
The agreement benefits both sides and leaves me brimming with some confidence that Israel and the Palestinians could reach a final accord, though I guarantee you it will not be easy.