WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama says he expects improvements in the relationship between the United States and Israel to come "pretty quick" once the Iran nuclear deal is in place.
Speaking via webcast to thousands of Jewish Americans, Obama said he hopes to rapidly resume discussions with Israel about bolstering its security. Israeli officials have said discussing security aid would imply acceptance of the Iran accord.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been among the fiercest opponents of the deal to curb Iran's nuclear program in exchange for billions of dollars in sanctions relief.
Obama said he knows that strains between the U.S. and Israel can be uncomfortable for American Jews because the preference is for "no daylight" between the allies. However, he said not airing differences can also be dangerous.
Read Saturday's Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for full details.