On Tuesday, U.S. President Joe Biden called on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to abandon a judicial overhaul proposal that had resulted in large-scale protests in Israel. Netanyahu had postponed the proposal on Monday, and the White House initially suggested he seek a compromise on the issue.
However, Biden took a more direct approach when speaking to reporters on Tuesday, saying, “I hope he walks away from it,” in reference to the proposal that would have given the Israeli government more control over appointments to the Supreme Court. In response, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s sovereignty, saying that decisions are made by the will of the people, and that his administration is working to make reforms via a broad consensus.
He also expressed appreciation for Biden’s commitment to Israel and emphasized the strength of the alliance between Israel and the U.S., which he said overcomes occasional disagreements.