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Clinton Reaffirms Opposition to UNSC Resolution in Meeting with Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton for about 50 minutes at the W Hotel in Union Square, Manhattan on Sunday.

“Secretary Clinton had an in-depth conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu,” a senior Clinton campaign aide said after the meeting. “Secretary Clinton stressed that a strong and secure Israel is vital to the United States because we share overarching strategic interests and the common values of democracy, equality, tolerance, and pluralism. She reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to the U.S.-Israel relationship and her plan to take our partnership to the next level.”

Israel’s Ambassador to the United States, Ron Dermer and Jake Sullivan, Clinton’s senior policy advisor also participated in the meeting, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.

According to the campaign, Clinton underscored her support for the new MOU and pledged to continue to strengthen the defense and intelligence relationship to ensure Israel maintains its qualitative military edge.

Photo by the Prime Minister's Office

Photo by the Prime Minister’s Office

The two leaders also discussed the Iranian nuclear deal, the conflict in Syria and the threats from ISIS, Hamas, and Hezbollah, as well as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. “The Secretary reaffirmed her commitment to work toward a two-state solution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict negotiated directly by the parties that guarantees Israel’s future as a secure and democratic Jewish state with recognized borders and provides the Palestinians with independence, sovereignty, and dignity,” the campaign said. “Secretary Clinton reaffirmed her opposition to any attempt by outside parties to impose a solution, including by the UN Security Council” and  “stressed her commitment to countering attempts to delegitimize Israel, including through the BDS movement.”

Netanyahu’s office said in a short statement, “Netanyahu discussed with Secretary Clinton a broad range of issues relating to advancing peace and stability in the Middle East as well as the potential for economic growth through technological innovation. Mr. Netanyahu thanked Secretary Clinton for her friendship and support for Israel.”

Earlier Sunday, Netanyahu met with Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump at his residence in Trump Tower. According to the Prime Minister’s Office,  “Netanyahu presented Israel’s positions on regional issues related to Israel’s security and efforts to achieve peace and stability” and “thanked Mr. Trump for his friendship and support of Israel.”

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