Netanyahu continued with words of thanks: “I want to thank US President Donald Trump for his historical declaration, which I know you supported and were proud of. I expect to speak with you, as previously, about how to continue strengthening our amazing bond, which has never been stronger. We will discuss our shared goal, and how to advance peace and security in our region. I welcome you, good friend, to Jerusalem. Welcome.”
After meeting Netanyahu, Pence will address the Knesset. Palestinian MK’s informed the Knesset that they will be absent from Pence’s address as part of the PA boycott of Pence and the US since Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s eternal capital. MK Ayman Ouda speaking for the PA said: “We want peace and to bring the 2 nations closer to each other. Therefore we wanted to give a message to the world that part of the citizens strongly opposes his (Trump’s) position.”
In a likewise gesture Pence won’t be meeting any Abu Mazen or PA officials either. Tomorrow Pence will visit the Western Wall and this visit may have a different flavor in light of America’s embracing Jerusalem as Israel’s eternal capital.
In a Foreign Ministry Press conference speech Netanyahu said: “We will speak together about 2 topics, peace and security. Relating to peace I have a message for Abu Mazen: There’s no substitute for American leadership promoting the peace process. Concerning security I have a message for the countries of Europe: I advise they take President Trump’s words seriously. If they want to keep the nuclear deal with Iran they should introduce amendments to it that will prevent Iran from becoming an Atomic nation which will be a threat to them and the entire world.”
