President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Yair Lapid will meet on Thursday and sign the the Jerusalem Declaration of the US-Israel Strategic Partnership, which will be a centerpiece of Biden’s visit to Israel to end on Friday.
The agreement includes a joint stance against Iran’s nuclear program and regional aggression, with both countries saying they will use “all elements of national power” to ensure Iran never attains a nuclear weapon.
In addition, President Biden will reaffirm his commitment to Israel’s security, including its qualitative military edge and ability to defend itself by itself.
“It includes a commitment to never allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon and to address Iran’s destabilizing activities, particularly threats to Israel.”
Biden administration official
The declaration states the US plans to follow up on the 10-year $38 billion Memorandum of Understanding on military aid signed with Israel, addressing emerging threats and new developments in the region.
Biden's visit to Israel
Biden and Lapid will meet for about 90 minutes and will then hold a press conference. Later in the day, Biden will travel to the President’s Residence for a reception where he will receive the presidential medal, will hold a short private meeting with Opposition Leader Benjamin Netanyahu and will then travel to Teddy Stadium to attend the opening of the Maccabiah Games.
White House officials have called the declaration “significant.”
“It includes a commitment to never allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon and to address Iran’s destabilizing activities, particularly threats to Israel,” one administration official said late Wednesday evening.