Kerry hints: We are here to keep Israel from attacking Iran

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden will address the Israeli public directly next week during a speech he is scheduled to deliver at Tel Aviv University, focusing on American commitment to Israel's security, Iran's nuclear program and the peace process. Senator John Kerry, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said yesterday in Jerusalem that Biden is seeking to ensure that Israel and the United States are in alignment on the issue of preventing the Iranian nuclear threat. To date the U.S. administration has not made a serious effort to reach out to the Israeli public, unlike addresses by President Barack Obama aimed at the Arab and Muslim world. Obama will continue to convey his message, which began during speeches in Turkey and Egypt, with another during an official visit to Indonesia, the most populous Muslim country. Obama has also not yet visited Israel as U.S. president. Biden is due in Israel on March 8, for a three-day visit that will also include the Palestinian Authority.