Deputy foreign minister defends red carpet welcome for Romney
Danny Ayalon says Israel does not interfere in the internal politics of other countries, and especially not the US, during elections
Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon rejected claims that Israel’s enthusiastic reception of Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney on Sunday was in any way inappropriate.
In an interview with Israel Radio on Monday, Ayalon said it is legitimate for Israel to host candidates, and pointed out the pre-election visits of George Bush and Barack Obama. The candidate visits demonstrate the deep connection between the two countries, he said.
Ayalon stressed that Israel does not become involved in the internal politics of other countries, and especially not the United States, during an election period, noting that the White House makes its own agenda based on its own interests and developments in the field.
“Those interests direct us towards preventing Iran from having a nuclear capability and therefore it makes no difference who is chosen to the White House,” Ayalon said in the interview.
Romney’s high-profile visit to provoked a harsh protest from the Palestinians after the Republican candidate stood opposite the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem and declared Jerusalem to be the capital of Israel.
“Romney’s declarations are harmful to American interests in our region, and they harm peace, security and stability,” Chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat told AFP.
“Even if this statement is within the US election campaign, it is unacceptable and we completely reject it. The US election campaign should never be at the expense of the Palestinians,” he said, and added, “Romney is rewarding occupation, settlement and extremism in the region with such declarations.”
Romney also reiterated US commitment to Israel’s security as it faces threats from Iran which, he warned, it would be “foolish” to ignore.