US President Barack Obama on Saturday congratulated Israel and its leaders on the formation of a new government, dpa reports.
His message went to the "the Israeli people, Prime Minister (Benjamin) Netanyahu, and the new members of the prime minister's governing coalition," the White House said.
On Friday, Netanyahu completed coalition negotiations after six weeks of tortuous negotations, and only one day before the deadline for informing President Shimon Peres that a government was in place.
Obama is expected to travel to Israel Wednesday for his first visit as president. The White House said Obama looked forward the visit and to further strengthen bonds with the Israeli people.
"President Obama looks forward to working closely with the prime minister and the new government to address the many challenges we face and advance our shared interest in peace and security," the White House said.
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