Nuclear weapons: U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid signed a joint pledge on Thursday
On Thursday, the US and Israel strengthened their alliance against Iran by signing a new security agreement, and President Joe Biden vowed to deploy “all” available American might to prevent the Islamic Republic from obtaining nuclear weapons. Israel has stated that it reserves the right to use force if necessary and that it wants Iran’s nuclear program completely terminated.
Mr. Biden’s visit to Saudi Arabia
Mr. Biden’s visit to Saudi Arabia, which is in the news because of disagreements with the US over human rights, will be the main focus of his Middle Eastern tour.
The meeting between Mr. Biden and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the country’s official ruler of the kingdom who was charged by US intelligence agencies with ordering the killing of Saudi dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Turkey in 2018, has drawn condemnation. The claims were refuted by the prince, and Saudi prosecutors accused “rogue” Saudi agents. Biden has defended his visit, saying his “aim was to reorient – but not rupture – relations” with Riyadh.
After the declaration was signed, Biden addressed a press conference and said, “We will not let Iran have a nuclear weapon.” The Jerusalem Declaration also committed the United States and Israel to work together on mixed-use technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum technology as well as defense programs like laser interceptors.
Despite Iran’s assurance that its nuclear program is peaceful, Israel considers it its biggest threat.
