Bennett, Biden Speak Two Hours After Swearing-in, Agree to 'Consult Closely' on Iran

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and U.S. President Joe Biden spoke on the phone, about two hours after the new Israeli government was sworn in.

A statement from Bennett's office said the two "stressed the importance of the alliance between Israel and the United States, as well as their commitment to strengthening ties ... and maintaining Israel's security."

The White House said Biden "highlighted his decades of steadfast support for the U.S.-Israel relationship and his unwavering commitment to Israel’s security."

"The leaders agreed that they and their teams would consult closely on all matters related to regional security, including Iran," the statement added. "The President also conveyed that his administration intends to work closely with the Israeli government on efforts to advance peace, security, and prosperity for Israelis and Palestinians."

Earlier on Sunday, Biden congratulated Israel’s Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and his coalition partners moments after they were sworn in, saying in a statement he “looks forward to working with Prime Minister Bennett to strengthen all aspects of the close and enduring relationship between our two nations.”

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Biden was the first world leader to react to the swearing-in, which ended Benjamin Netanyahu's 12 years as prime minister.

After Biden's inauguration in January, it took him four weeks to call the former Prime Minister Netanyahu. A move which sparked rumors that the Biden administration was attempting to send a message to Netanyahu's government.

Moreover, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warmly congratulated the Alternate Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid in a phone call on Sunday night.