MK Danny Danon is optimistic about meeting with Obama
The July 6th, 2010 meeting of the two leaders went much more smoothly than last time. Many Israelis expected President Obama to urge Prime Minister Netanyahu to extend the settlement freeze in Judea and Samaria. MK Danny Danon has stated that he feels it is Netanyahu’s responsibility to tell Obama that it is the right of Jews to live in Jerusalem, and the world must respect these rights. Danon firmly believes that the Prime Minister must adhere to the right-wing Likud platforms, and make sure building will resume on September 26th in Judea and Samaria.
President Obama began by stating that he strongly believes direct peace talks must occur before the 10-month building freeze in the settlements is up. Obama said, “I believe Prime Minister Netanyahu wants peace. I think he is willing to take risks for peace.” In response, Netanyahu simply stated that measures are being taken to further the peace process.
MK Danny Danon believes Obama has realized that pressuring Israel does not work. Danon said, “Obama is wrong if he thinks the freeze must continue for direct talks to begin. He instead must pressure the Palestinians to come to the negotiating table, regardless of the freeze.”
After hearing the results of the meeting between the Prime Minister and President Obama, Danon feels slightly more optimistic. He was pleased that Obama never mentioned the word “extended” in reference to the freeze in Judea and Samaria, instead Obama specifically said, “when the freeze ends.”
The fact that Mr. Netanyahu was well received in the White House, especially after the controversial visit in March of this year, could indicate an improving relationship between the Obama administration and Israel. If a Zionist like MK Danon is optimistic about the outcome of this meeting, things may be taking a turn for the better.
