
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.