US Jewish leaders stated that contrary to some reports, during a meeting they had earlier this week with President Barack Obama at the White House "there was no expression of hostility toward Israel or its government."
In a statement, Alan Solow and Malcolm Hoenlein, respectively Chairman and Executive Vice Chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, said: "At the request of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, President Barack Obama met with leaders of approximately 50 American Jewish organizations. Contrary to certain public reports, the meeting was conducted in an atmosphere of warmth, friendship and openness and there was no expression of hostility toward Israel or its government."µ
The statement added: "In fact, the President stated his unequivocal support for the strong relationship and the unbreakable bonds between the United States and Israel and his personal commitment to working with Israel in these challenging times. He expressed understanding for Israel’s needs and said the United States had no better friend in the world, noting the shared values that are at the core of both nations."
"He acknowledged the wide range of opinion within the American Jewish community and the possibility that not all of those present would agree with each of his tactical decisions. The President articulated his expectations of all parties with respect to the Middle East peace process. The President underscored the unprecedented security cooperation with and support for Israel. He asserted his commitment to maintaining Israel’s qualitative edge and to sustaining foreign aid to Israel. The President asserted that efforts to delegitimize Israel would be met with a firm response."
"We greatly value the President spending an hour to engage in dialogue with our community’s leaders and the ongoing close working relationship with the Administration. We look forward to future opportunities to hear from the President and exchange views," said Solow and Hoenlein.
A White House statement had described the meeting as "productive," citing the President emphasizing "America's unshakable support for Israel’s security, opposition to any effort to de-legitimize it or single it out for criticism, and commitment to achieve a peace that will secure the future for Arabs and Israelis alike."
During the one-hour meeting, Obama shared with his guests his view on the turbulence in the Middle East, the recent veto of the resolution at the United Nations Security Council that condemned settlements construction, and prospects of peace between Israel and its neighbors.