Bennett says he’s invited Biden to Israel ‘immediately after Delta variant defeated’

WASHINGTON — Briefing Israeli reporters after his meeting with US President Joe Biden, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett says he invited the president to visit Israel after the ongoing pandemic wave resides.

“I invited the president to Israel after we defeat the Delta variant,” Bennett says.

“I am truly grateful to the president and his entire staff on their determination to carry out the meeting. [Biden] said immediately [after the delay] that in any event we would have a full meeting,” Bennett tells reporters.

“It was a wonderful meeting, especially the one-on-one,” says Prime Minister Naftali Bennett in subsequent briefing with Israeli reporters. “It was mostly a working meeting. There was a feeling that we’ve known each other for a long time. I found a leader who loves Israel, knows exactly what he wants, and is attentive to our needs.”

“Both President Biden and I are determined that Iran won’t ever get a nuclear weapon. I am happy that we agree on the goal. Our staffs will work in the coming days, weeks, and months to develop channels of cooperation.”

“I must say there isn’t a lot of time. The subject is urgent, and cannot be pushed aside.”