US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed support for a two-state solution in a telephone conversation with Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi on Monday. 

According to his spokesman Ned Price, Mr Blinken emphasised the new American administration’s belief that “the two-state solution is the best way to ensure Israel’s future as a Jewish and democratic state, living in peace alongside a viable and democratic Palestinian state”. 

Mr Blinken also noted the USA’s “continuing commitment to opposing unfair, unilateral actions against Israel in the multilateral arena”. 

Tomorrow he is due to address the United Nations Human Rights Council, which the US has rejoined after its departure under President Donald Trump in 2018. The council has passed more motions critical of Israel than of any other country. 

Mr Price said that Mr Blinken and Mr Ashkenazi acknowledged the “steadfast partnership” between the USA and Israel and that “the two countries would work closely on challenges ahead”. 

According to Ynet, at a meeting of senior Israeli cabinet members, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thought the USA was rushing into an agreement with Iran and Israel would struggle to make an impact on American policy. 

But Mr Ashkenazi and Defence Minister Benny Gantz believed Israel’s voice would continue to be heard in Washington, the paper said. 

Donald Trump pulled the USA out of the Iran nuclear deal in 2018.