Biden and Herzog Meet at the White House to Discuss Ways to Advance Freedom and Security in the Middle East

President Joe Biden and Israeli President Isaac Herzog met at the White House on Tuesday to discuss ways to advance freedom and security for Israelis and Palestinians, address Iran’s “destabilizing behavior” and “deepen Israel’s regional integration.”

The two leaders discussed the Iranian nuclear threat, Hezbollah operations and internal issues in Israel, such as the debate over a controversial judicial system overhaul and settlement expansion in the West Bank.

The meeting between Biden and Herzog, whose position is mostly symbolic, allows the President to reaffirm his longstanding support for Israel without embracing Netanyahu, who has not met with Biden since he took office in December.

Biden emphasized his “iron-clad, unwavering commitment” to the U.S.-Israel relationship and said the two countries have a “friendship that is simply unbreakable.” Herzog thanked Biden for his “warm hospitality” and said he was “honored to be here.”

The two leaders will address Congress on Wednesday to discuss the issues discussed in their meeting. Biden and Herzog are expected to discuss ways to advance freedom and security for Israelis and Palestinians, address Iran’s “destabilizing behavior” and “deepen Israel’s regional integration.”