The White House announced on Thursday that U.S. President Joe Biden will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is visiting Washington next week. However, this meeting is contingent upon Biden's recovery from COVID-19. U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated, "All signs indicate that the two men will have an opportunity to meet," while emphasizing that "the president's health and recovery from COVID remain a priority, as does how it will affect discussions with the Israeli prime minister."
In the same context, a White House official mentioned that Vice President Kamala Harris will have the opportunity to meet with Netanyahu during his time in Washington. Netanyahu is scheduled to address the U.S. Congress on Wednesday, while Israeli media reported that he will meet with Biden starting on Monday. However, Kirby clarified that he could not confirm if the meeting would take place at that time.
The war between Israel and Gaza will be the main topic of discussions, as the U.S. president pushes for a ceasefire with Palestinian factions. Biden has been forced to isolate himself after confirming his COVID-19 infection on Wednesday during a campaign trip to Las Vegas. However, Kirby stated that the president has remained informed about developments, particularly those related to national security. The White House announced Biden’s COVID-19 diagnosis during his trip to Las Vegas on Wednesday.