WASHINGTON (JTA) — President Obama mentioned commitment to a two state solution in congratulating Israel on its election.
Obama on Wednesday spoke to Israeli President Shimon Peres, said a statement issued by the White House.
"The president remarked that the Israeli people should be very happy about the democratic example they have set for the world," the statement said. "They had a good discussion, and the president complimented President Peres on his recent op-ed in which he reaffirmed his strong commitment to achieving a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict."
U.S. officials have otherwise refused comment on the inconclusive Israeli elections until a government is formed.
Benjamin Netanyahu, the Likud Party leader, and Tzipi Livni of Kadima each claimed victory. Livni is seen as closer to the Obama administration’s commitment to pressing forward on Israeli-Palestinian talks.
