The meeting between President Isaac Herzog and US President Joe Biden on Tuesday lasted for 40 minutes and was followed by an extended meeting together with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Biden’s National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. During the meeting, Biden commented on the judicial reform in Israel and stressed the need to reach broad agreements. He pointed out that the internal fights in Israel and the noise they generate around them make it difficult to make progress in the regional processes that the Americans are trying to promote. President Herzog responded by saying that he is continuing his efforts to find a solution and end the crisis in the best possible way and believes that it is possible to reach agreements through negotiations. Biden also stated to Herzog that the conversation between him and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that took place on Monday was good and even defined it as "cordial and constructive". The two stressed several times the fact that the relationship between Israel and the US is warm and the friendship between the two countries is close, despite the attempt to paint a different picture of the situation. Biden commented on the Iranian issue and said that cooperation with Israel is necessary in the face of threats from Iran. President Herzog noted the increase in Palestinian Arab terrorism in recent months and the heavy price Israel has paid in the loss of civilian lives. Biden replied that it is Israel's right to defend itself and maintain its security. At the same time, he warned against “price tag” incidents of violence. Related articles: 'I don't understand why Israel gave up Gaza' 'Israel has right to live in heart of Biblical homeland' Netanyahu lands in Washington, meets US Commerce Secretary Netanyahu leaves for US to talk to Trump about tariffs The subject of adding Israel to the Visa Waiver Program also came up at the meeting and the American officials stated that the process is in advanced stages and is expected to be completed soon. During the meeting, Biden showed those present the Presidential Medal he received from President Herzog last year. Herzog said that he felt when visiting Biden as he does when he visits the home of a family member.
