There was nothing remarkable in the address in Tel Aviv University delivered on Thursday by US Vice President Joe Biden, who used the standard terms to express America’s commitment to Israel’s security, the need to advance the diplomatic process with the PA (Palestinian Authority), his criticism of the planned construction in Yerushalayim and America’s firm resolve regarding Iran.

Tel Aviv University, a bastion of left-wing ideology, was not chosen coincidently, permitting the left a comfortable atmosphere, an audience that burst into a round of applause as the senior visiting dignitary expressed disapproval over plans to continue building Yerushalayim.

He explained the PA misunderstood the announcement regarding planned construction in Ramat Shlomo, and the construction is not scheduled to begin immediately, providing negotiators with ample time to resolve issues.

Early into his address, Mr. Biden stressed America’s commitment to Israel, stating “US President Barack Obama and myself know that the US has no better friend in the community of nations than Israel.”

“We lead the fight against the campaign to question Israel’s legitimacy,” he added, further stating that American stands at Israel’s side against the “insidious campaign to challenge Israel’s right to exist.”

Regarding the PA, he warned the “status quo is non-sustainable” and that there is no reason not to return to the negotiating table. He espoused words of praise for PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen), stating confidently that he shares Israel’s vision for peace in the region.

Regarding Iran, he emphasized that America is on top of things and the Iranian threat is “atop of the list of priorities of the US administration”. The vice president stated the US administration remains committed to preventing Iran from building a nuclear weapon.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)