PM Netanyahu: Israel-US ties 'unbreakable'

Speaking at a reception at the US Ambassadors residence yesterday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stressed the 'unbreakable' bond between Israel and the United States, echoing the phrase used by President Barack Obama in his speech in Cairo. The gathering was held to celebrate the American Independence Day. The prime minister went on to refer to the USA as a model for freedom and values. He warned that the acquisition of nuclear weapons by tyrannical regimes could change the general progress in the world toward greater freedom and democracy. US Ambassador James Cunningham in his speech also said that the US remains committed to the security of Israel and its citizens.

The professions of continued friendship notwithstanding, a considerable rift remains between the government of Israel and the US administration on the issue of a freeze on all construction in West Bank settlements. There is growing anger on the right of the Israeli political spectrum regarding the US demand. One Likud MK, Danny Danon, attempted to organise a boycott of the event at the US Ambassador's residence, but despite this, a large number of Israeli politicians appeared at the reception.

The administration, meanwhile, remains firm in its demand. Congressman Robert Wexler, a close ally of President Obama, reiterated US insistence on a total settlement freeze in an interview with Israeli reporters yesterday. Wexler stressed that the US is also insisting on Arab gestures of normalisation with Israel as a quid pro quo for a settlement freeze. He dismissed suggestions that the US attitude was leading to increased Palestinian intransigence with regard to the negotiations, as the PA waited for the US to "deliver" Israel.

There is a growing sense among Israeli commentators, however, that this dynamic is in effect. They note the continued refusal of PA representatives to meet with representatives of the current Israeli government, and the failure of Arab states to make any commitment regarding normalisation with Israel. According to a report on Israel's Channel 1 news last night, President Obama is expected to reveal his Mid-East peace plan within a month. PM Netanyahu, meanwhile, is expected to meet with envoy George Mitchell in two weeks.

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