Obama, Netanyahu talk Israeli settlements, peace, golf in likely final meeting

NEW YORK, Sept. 21 (UPI) -- Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu met with President Barack Obama in New York City on Wednesday -- most likely the final time they will get together in their current official capacities.

Obama and Netanyahu met for a short time on the sidelines at the United Nations General Assembly and discussed various issues. Among them, the ongoing construction of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

And on that issue, they disagreed.

Netanyahu didn't concur with the American president's assertion that continuing construction in the hotly-contested region poses a risk to a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians.

Obama said there are "profound U.S. concerns about the corrosive effect that settlement activity, that is continuing when the occupation enters its 50th year, is having on the prospects" for peace.

"They've never papered over their differences," Netanyahu answered.

Both leaders have met several times in the last eight years and forged a strong relationship, even though there have been some stark disagreements, such as last year's landmark Iran nuclear agreement.

"The bond between the United States and Israel is unbreakable," Obama remarked. "It is based on common values, family ties, a recognition that a Jewish state of Israel is one of our most important allies, and a guiding principle throughout my presidency. ...it is important for America's national security to ensure that we have a safe and secure Israel, one that can defend itself."

At the start of his remarks, Natanyahu thanked the United States for signing a military aid package earlier this month to provide Israel with nearly $40 billion over the next decade.

"It greatly enhances Israel's security," the Israeli PM said. "Israel has no greater friend than the United States of America, and America has no greater friend than Israel."

The two leaders also touched on other topics, including the health of former PM Shimon Peres and Obama's golf game.

"As you conclude your presidency, I know you're going to be busy with many, many things, much more than improving what I hear is a terrific golf game," Netanyahu said to laughter from the pool of reporters. "I want you to know, Barack, that you'll always be a welcome guest in Israel.

"By the way ... right next to my home in Caesarea, in Israel, is a terrific golf course."