U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are set to have their first face-to-face meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week. This meeting comes almost nine months after Netanyahu returned to power. While some advocated for a meeting at the White House, it was ultimately decided that the two leaders would meet at the U.N. headquarters in New York.
The decision to opt for a meeting at the U.N. headquarters rather than the Oval Office sparked debate within Biden’s political circle. Some officials believed that an Oval Office meeting could potentially damage Biden’s standing in the Democratic Party. Others expressed concerns about the possibility of protests by thousands of Israeli and American Jews outside the White House. There were also concerns about sending the wrong message regarding the Netanyahu government’s judicial reform efforts and policies.
Netanyahu had initially pressed for a meeting at the White House, but efforts to secure an Oval Office date failed. Instead, the Israeli Prime Minister will meet with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine during the U.N. General Assembly. This will be their first in-person exchange since Netanyahu resumed his position as prime minister.
Before arriving in New York, Netanyahu will visit San Francisco, where he is expected to tour the tech industry in Silicon Valley. There are even reports suggesting that he may meet with Elon Musk, the owner of X (formerly Twitter). During a telephone conversation in June, Netanyahu emphasized the need for governments to understand the opportunities and risks posed by artificial intelligence. He believes that Israel has the potential to become a significant global player in this field.
Once in New York, Netanyahu will deliver a speech at the United Nations General Assembly. It is likely that his address will take place on Friday morning. Netanyahu will remain in the city until Saturday, just before the start of Yom Kippur on the evening of September 24.
Overall, the upcoming meeting between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu holds significant importance. It will provide an opportunity for the two leaders to discuss various bilateral and regional issues that have been of concern. As the world watches, the outcome and messages conveyed during this meeting will be closely scrutinized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to the Above News
Where will the first face-to-face meeting between President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu take place?
The meeting will take place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Why was the decision made to have the meeting at the U.N. headquarters instead of the White House?
Some officials in Biden's political circle believed that an Oval Office meeting might harm Biden's standing within the Democratic Party. There were also concerns about potential protests by Israeli and American Jews outside the White House and sending the wrong message regarding the Netanyahu government's policies.
Was there an initial push for a meeting at the White House?
Yes, Netanyahu initially wanted to meet at the White House, but efforts to secure an Oval Office date were unsuccessful.
Whom will Netanyahu meet during the U.N. General Assembly?
Netanyahu is expected to meet with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine during the U.N. General Assembly. This will be their first in-person exchange since Netanyahu returned to power.
What other engagements does Netanyahu have before the U.N. General Assembly meeting?
Before arriving in New York, Netanyahu will visit San Francisco and tour the tech industry in Silicon Valley. There are reports suggesting he may also meet with Elon Musk, the owner of X (formerly Twitter), to discuss artificial intelligence and Israel's potential in the field.
When will Netanyahu deliver his speech at the United Nations General Assembly?
Netanyahu's speech is likely to take place on Friday morning.
How long will Netanyahu stay in New York?
Netanyahu will remain in the city until Saturday, just before the start of Yom Kippur on the evening of September 24.
What will be the significance of the meeting between Biden and Netanyahu?
The meeting holds significance as it will provide an opportunity for the leaders to discuss various bilateral and regional issues. The outcome and messages conveyed during this meeting will be closely scrutinized by the world.
Please note that the FAQs provided on this page are based on the news article published. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is always recommended to consult relevant authorities or professionals before making any decisions or taking action based on the FAQs or the news article.