U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday said he spoke with Israeli Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu about possible solutions for creation of an independent state for Palestinians, noting that not all countries have their own militaries.
Biden’s call with Netanyahu was the first in nearly a month, the White House said, noting the discussions focused on Israel’s ongoing strikes in Gaza.
Asked if a two-state solution was impossible while Netanyahu was still in office, Biden said, “No, it’s not.”
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with U.S. mayors, Biden said Netanyahu was not opposed to all two-state solutions, and there were a number of types possible, adding that some United Nations members do not have military forces.
Biden was asked if he would reconsider conditions on Israel aid given Netanyahu’s comments rejecting a two-state solution.
“I think we’ll be able to work something out,” he said.
Biden and Netanyahu discussed efforts to secure the remaining hostages held by Hamas, and Israel’s shift to more “targeted” operations in Gaza to allow more humanitarian assistance to come through, the White House said.
