BICOM

US President Barack Obama received a warm reception in Israel yesterday and highlighted the deep friendship between the two countries at the start of a brief regional tour.

Throughout the day, there was a friendly atmosphere between Obama and Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose relationship has been viewed as frosty until now. Obama landed at Ben Gurion International Airport and was greeted by Netanyahu and Israel’s President Shimon Peres. In an initial address, Obama drew applause by beginning with the word “shalom” and then emphasised that his visit is “an opportunity to reaffirm the unbreakable bond between our two nations.” Obama also commented “Just as we have for these past 65 years, the United States is proud to stand with you as your strongest ally and your greatest friend.”

Netanyahu responded by calling Obama’s visit “an historic moment” and said “I come here today with a simple message. Thank you… The people of Israel are honoured to have you visit.” Netanyahu also commented, “I look forward to working with you over the next four years to make the alliance between our two countries even stronger.”

The two leaders also appeared to share a joke during the official welcoming. On being told by an official to “follow the red line” in reference to the red carpet, Obama replied “He’s always talking to me about red lines,” referring to Netanyahu’s determination to stop Iran’s nuclear development. Following the ceremonial welcome, Obama briefly visited an Iron Dome battery before travelling to Jerusalem where he met with President Peres prior to lengthy talks with Netanyahu.

This morning’s headlines in the Israeli media indicate that Obama’s visit has been well received by the Israeli public. Yediot Ahronot leads with the headline “A Warm Embrace” while Israel Hayom calls it “A visit of embraces.”