“I’m thrilled to be here,” says Obama.
The president is introduced to the line of dignitaries. He meets Yuli Edelstein, the new Knesset speaker, and is told that Edelstein sat in jail in the FSU for seeking to come to Israel.
“Very nice to see you… Good to see you,” Obama says as he is introduced to the chief rabbis and to government ministers.
Netanyahu tells the president about each minister in turn. “It’s wonderful to see you,” he tells Tzipi Livni.
“I’m sure” we’ll spend time together, Obama tells Yair Lapid.
Defense Minister Ya’alon says something to the effect of Israel’s security being the US’s security.
Now Obama meets a representative of the diplomatic community here, and shakes hands with Israeli Ambassador to the US Michael Oren.
Obama begins in Hebrew, says “Tov lihyot ba’aretz” — it’s good to be in Israel.
He notes it’s his third visit???
Palestinians also protesting the the West bank.
Another rally is also being held in Hebron. On Tuesday, the Palestinian Authority issued a ban on releasing photos and videos from Hebron. The PA is hoping to avoid embarrassment over hateful displays in the city.Live updates can be read here and here.
Update: New link for Live updates at Perez here.
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