Biden congratulates Netanyahu on election victory in phone call
- Barak Ravid, author of Axios from Tel Aviv
Benjamin Netanyahu. Courtesy of Netanyahu's office
President Biden on Monday congratulated Israeli opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu on his bloc's election victory last week.
Why it matters: Netanyahu is in the process of forming a coalition after his right-wing bloc won a 64-seat majority in the Knesset. The U.S. is concerned about the fact the government is expected to include members of extreme right-wing parties.
Driving the news: The call between Netanyahu and Biden lasted eight minutes, according to Netanyahu's office.
- Netanyahu told Biden that he wants to get more peace agreements with Arab countries, his office said.
- “My commitment to the alliance and the relations between us is stronger than ever," Netanyahu told Biden.
- Biden "reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-Israel bilateral partnership, based on a bedrock of shared democratic values and mutual interests, and underscored his unwavering support for Israel’s security," the White House said in a readout of the call.
- "The two leaders agreed to speak again at the conclusion of Israel’s government formation process," the White House added.
Between the lines: Biden called Netanyahu about five days after the election results were announced.
Go deeper: The rise of Israel's extreme right
Editor's note: This story has been updated with the White House's readout of the call.