BICOM

In an exclusive interview with Channel Two’s Yonit Levy, US President Obama set the stage for his two-day visit to Israel and the region next week.

Obama made no mention of bringing any concrete plans regarding the diplomatic process between Israel and the Palestinians. Ben Rhodes, White House deputy national security adviser, confirmed as much yesterday, telling journalists “We have been very clear this visit is not about trying to lay down a new initiative.” Obama instead said, “My goal on this trip is to listen” to Israeli and Palestinian leaders “and to hear from them what is their strategy, what is their vision, where do they think this should go?”

Obama specified that he will tell Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, “that trying to unilaterally go to, for example, the United Nations, and do an end run around Israel, is not going to be successful.” He said that he will emphasise to Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “that he should have an interest in strengthening the moderate leadership inside the Palestinian Authority,” especially when it comes to the issue of settlements. Giving an insight into his relationship with Netanyahu, Obama said “He is very blunt with me about his views on issues, and I am very blunt with him about my views on issues. And we get stuff done.”

Obama also emphasised his determination to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, saying “if we can resolve it diplomatically, that’s a more lasting solution. But if not, I continue to keep all options on the table.” He predicted that “it would take over a year or so for Iran to actually develop a nuclear weapon.” It is unclear whether Netanyahu advocates the same timeline which could precipitate military action.