U.S.-Israel Relations Take Another Hit Over Spying Accusations

Incumbent Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting with leaders of Israel’s Arab community and other minorities on Monday evening, telling them “I know that the things I said a few days ago hurt some citizens in Israel, the Arab Israeli citizens. This was not my intention and I am sorry. I see in every Israeli citizen a partner in the building of a flourishing and safe state of Israel for all.” The assembled leaders showed their appreciation for his apology, with several embracing him. However, the apology was rejected outright by the leaders of the Joint (Arab) List party and Netanyahu’s “sincerity” was publicly questioned by a spokesperson for the Obama Administration in Washington. In related news, the Wall Street Journal published a story Tuesday about Obama Administration officials accusing Israel of “spying” on diplomats involved in negotiations over Iran’s renegade nuclear program. Read More