Israel said it was deeply grateful to the United States on Saturday after it vetoed a United Nations resolution put forward by the Palestinian leadership condemning Israeli settlement activity. "Israel deeply appreciates the decision by President Obama to veto the Security Council Resolution", Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement.
"Israel deeply appreciates the decision by President Obama to veto the Security Council Resolution today.
Israel remains committed to pursuing comprehensive peace with all our neighbors, including the Palestinians.
We seek a solution that will reconcile the Palestinians' legitimate aspirations for statehood with Israel's need for security and recognition.
Today's decision by the U.S. makes it clear that the only path to such a peace will come through direct negotiations and not through the decisions of international bodies.
We are prepared to pursue those peace negotiations vigorously and are eager to get on with the work of achieving a secure peace. We hope the Palestinians will join us in that effort as soon as possible".