Netanyahu leaves for the US

Jul 22. (EUROPA PRESS) –

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began his trip to Washington on Monday, a trip marked by US President Joe Biden’s recent announcement that he is withdrawing from his re-election bid.

Netanyahu left accompanied by several relatives of hostages in the Gaza Strip, although there were also protests at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv demanding that he resign and close a deal for the release of the hostages, according to the Israeli press.

The Israeli president is scheduled to meet Biden and address Congress after a trip to inaugurate the “Wing of Zion,” Israel’s new government aircraft.

Before leaving, he praised Biden. “This is an opportunity to thank him for what he has done for Israel in the war and during his long and distinguished career of public service as a senator, vice president and president,” he said.

“Whoever the American people elect as president, Israel will remain the most indispensable and strongest ally in the Middle East,” he stressed.

The visit will be “an opportunity to discuss with him how to move forward in the critical months ahead that are important for both countries” to “achieve the release of all our hostages, defeat Hamas, confront Iran’s axis of terror and ensure that all citizens of Israel can return safely to their homes in the north and south.”