President Barack Obama looks forward to “working closely” with the new Israeli Government formed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the US leader’s visit, officials said on Sunday.
“The president congratulates the Israeli people, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and the new members of the prime minister’s governing coalition on the successful formation of Israel’s new Government,” White House spokesman Jay Carney said in a statement.
“President Obama looks forward to working closely with the Prime Minister and the new Government to address the many challenges we face and advance our shared interest in peace and security.”
Netanyahu formally notified President Shimon Peres that he had formed the new Government after 40 days of tortuous negotiations.
The announcement came shortly before a legal deadline for Netanyahu to form a Government or admit defeat.
Obama is set to visit Jerusalem and West Bank next week in a milestone visit that will mark his first since taking office more than four years ago.