Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak on Wednesday morning congratulated U.S. President Barack Obama shortly after his re- election victory, and stressed strategic ties between the two countries.

"The strategic alliance between Israel and the U.S. is stronger than ever," Netanyahu said. "I will continue to work with President Obama to assure the interests that are vital to the security of the citizens of Israel."

Netanyahu's remarks came against a backdrop of perceived support for Obama's competitor Mitt Romney during the hard-fought election campaign, culminating with a visit by the Massachusetts governor to Israel in late July.

Netanyahu's office and supporters have stridently denied allegations of interference in the American political process, despite frosty relations between the Israeli leader and Obama.

Netanyahu is set to meet with U.S. Ambassador to Israel Daniel Shapiro later Wednesday to personally offer his congratulations to the president on his win.

Barak, the defense minister, said in a statement Wednesday that he had "no doubt that the Obama administration will continue its policy -- whereby Israel's security is at its very foundations -- as well as its efforts to tackle the challenges facing all of us in the region; all the while continuing to strive for further progress in the peace process."

Noting "the tradition of deep friendship" and "shared experiences accrued with President Obama," the defense minister said, "It will be possible to overcome any differences in stance; should they arise."