Netanyahu, Pence look for ways to coordinate on settlements

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with US Vice President Mike Pence in Washington on Thursday, with the discussion including the planned establishment of a mechanism to discuss Israeli settlement building.

“We will formulate as soon as possible the creation of a mechanism to discuss with the White House construction in the settlements, with the intention of reaching an understanding on this matter,” a member of Netanyahu’s delegation to Washington says.

The two leaders also agree to “work together in a systematic manner” to change the United Nations’ treatment of Israel, a member of Netanyahu’s delegation to Washington says after the meeting.

It is possible that Washington would demand drastic changes in the UN’s approach to the Jewish state, including the threat to withhold US funding, the official says.

Netanyahu also brings up concerns over Jonathan Pollard, a former American spy who was released recently but is prevented from moving to Israel. It is agreed that Israel’s envoy to Washington, Ron Dermer, would personally take on this portfolio.

The prime minister also reiterates his request that the US recognize Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights, something he asked of President Donald Trump yesterday during their Oval Office meeting.

— Raphael Ahren