Article:
Netanyahu and Herzog discuss legal legislation and Iranian matter in meeting
In a recent meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog, details regarding legal legislation were not provided by either office. However, it has been reported that President Herzog called for finding a way to re-enter the path of dialogue. Notably, the meeting also discussed softening formulas for canceling the reason for reasonableness, as previously published.
The joint statement issued by the two offices mainly detailed the Iranian matter, which will be a central topic during President Herzog’s upcoming meeting with US President Joe Biden at the White House next week. Sources close to the Prime Minister revealed that Netanyahu presented Herzog with two red lines against the US.
Israel firmly stated that it will not agree to the dangerous nuclear agreement with Iran and will take all necessary measures to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Additionally, there is a red line concerning a “no surprises” policy regarding Iran, meaning that Israel will inform the US of any actions taken against Iran.
Regarding the first red line, talks between Iran and the US are not focused on returning to the original agreement but on reaching a renewed understanding to freeze the current situation. It is believed that Israel no longer has any influence over the American decision on this matter, as assessed by Israel’s political and security echelons. The second red line echoes the question posed by President Biden to former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett during their meeting in the Oval Office, to which Bennett responded with a rejection. Therefore, this is not a new development.
What is noteworthy is that Netanyahu is delivering these messages through Herzog. Knowing that he will not secure a meeting with President Biden anytime soon, Netanyahu understands the importance of keeping Herzog updated. For Herzog, being the President and receiving the honor of meeting with Biden holds significance.
Simultaneously, the White House released an official announcement in anticipation of Herzog’s visit next week. The announcement highlighted that Biden will prioritize the shared democratic values of both countries and discuss ways to promote equality, freedom, prosperity, and security for both Palestinians and Israelis. Additionally, discussions surrounding the cooperation of Russia and Iran, as well as the expansion of integration in the region, will take place. Apart from meeting President Biden, Herzog will also hold discussions with Vice President Kamala Harris and other senior administration officials.
Overall, the meeting between Netanyahu and Herzog focused on legal legislation and the Iranian matter. While Herzog will soon embark on his visit to the US, the statements and discussions surrounding the meeting highlight the ongoing importance of Israel-US relations.