Israeli premier due to visit US as Biden withdraws from presidential race

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit the US as President Joe Biden dropped out from the 2024 presidential race on Sunday.

Netanyahu will arrive in Washington, D.C. late Monday and is scheduled to meet with Biden on Tuesday at the White House ahead of his address to a joint session of the Congress on Wednesday. Some senators, including Bernie Sanders, already said they won't attend his speech.

Biden and Netanyahu will discuss ways to reach a deal on a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip and the return of hostages.

Netanyahu is also expected to meet with Vice President Kamala Harris, who is seeking the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination after Biden's withdrawal.

Biden's candidacy has been in the spotlight following his dismal performance against former President Donald Trump in a presidential debate late last month.

Facing mounting pressure, Biden, 81, said in a letter posted on social media that it has been "the greatest honor" of his life to serve as president.

“And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term," he said, endorsing Harris to replace him as a candidate.