Biden defends Iran deal against Israel news scrutiny, officials tout ‘important strategic ties’

U.S. President Joe Biden is on his first trip to the Middle East as Commander-in-Chief. He landed in Tel Aviv on Wednesday and was greeted by several dignitaries including the Israeli President and Prime Minister. Biden pledged in remarks at an arrival ceremony to deepen Israel’s relationship with America and with other countries in the region.

“We’ll continue to advance Israel’s integration into the region, expand emerging forums and engagement,” Biden said. “Greater peace, greater stability, greater connection. It’s critical. It’s critical, if I might add, for all the people of the region.”

After arriving, Biden received briefing on the Iron Dome defense system and the next-generation, laser-enabled Iron Beam system. The United States has provided much support and funding for the project.

Another leg on his tour is a stop in Saudi Arabia. Leaving a host of domestic issues like 40-year-high inflation, sky-high gas prices, a recent rash of violence in big cities across the nation and the ongoing debate over abortion—President Biden is defending his decision to travel to Saudi Arabia saying human rights would be on his agenda as he gave a preview of a trip on which he aims to reset ties with the crown prince, who he previously denounced as a pariah.

Biden will hold bilateral talks with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and his leadership team, including Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on his visit to the Middle East this week.

The Crown Prince Mohammed, Saudi Arabia’s de facto leader, was believed to be behind the 2018 murder of Washington Post journalist and political opponent Jamal Khashoggi, according to the U.S. intelligence community.

Biden needs oil-rich Saudi Arabia’s help at a time of high gasoline prices and as he encourages efforts to end the war in Yemen after the Saudis recently extended a ceasefire there. The United States also wants to curb Iran’s influence in the Middle East and China’s global sway.