WASHINGTON - PRESIDENT Barack Obama said on Monday, the Jewish state's 62nd anniversary, that the United States shares an 'unbreakable bond' with Israel and he was confident the relationship 'will only be strengthened' into the future.Despite tensions between Mr Obama and the government of hawkish Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the US leader stressed that he looks 'forward to continuing our efforts with Israel to achieve comprehensive peace and security in the region, including a two-state solution.'
On the anniversary, Mr Obama said in a statement released by the White House that 'we once again honour the extraordinary achievements of the people of Israel, and their deep and abiding friendship with the American people.'
On Sunday, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the United States 'will not waver in protecting Israel's security and promoting Israel's future,' while noting while the Jewish state is 'confronting some of the greatest challenges in its history, but its promise and potential have never been greater.' Mrs Clinton also pointed out that in 1948 it took President Harry Truman just 11 minutes to recognise the state of Israel.
'And ever since, the United States has stood with you in solidarity.' Ties have frayed this year, however. In March, during a visit to the country by US Vice-President Joe Biden, Israeli officials announced plans to build 1,600 Jewish settlements in annexed east Jerusalem.
Mrs Clinton later called the Israeli move 'insulting.' Just days ago Mrs Clinton called on Mr Netanyahu to prove his commitment to a Palestinian state, warning that prolonged conflict only strengthened extremists. -- AFP
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