For the first time since he was elected, President Obama will be visiting Israel this coming Spring. The decision was reached in late January, after Obama met with and congratulated Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, on his victory in the recent election. 

On Tuesday the White House announced Obama’s decision to visit, but no specific date or itinerary has currently been released. 

According to Big Story: 

“The announcement of Obama's visit comes at a time of uncertainty for Netanyahu who emerged weakened from January's election but will remain in charge if he can build a governing coalition before the mid-March deadline. The emergence of a new centrist party in Israel's election offered hope to those urging the hawkish Netanyahu to make peace with the Palestinians a higher priority.” 

The last time Obama visited Israel was before his election in the 2008 campaign.

From The Wall Street Journal: 

“Mr. Obama's decision to skip over Israel during previous trips frustrated Israeli officials and the public, who saw it as an effort to distance the U.S. from Israel for the sake of repairing ties with the Arab world.”

 

 

 

Reach Executive Producer Eric Parra here.