#White House drops the B-52s because of the Israel-Hamas conflict

Mrs Biden made the announcement during a preview for the dinner, which will feature a guest chef, dishes including sarsaparilla-braised short ribs and design featuring US and Australian elements.

Mr Albanese arrived at the White House on Tuesday.

His official state visit will kick off on Wednesday, beginning with talks with Mr Biden in the Oval Office before a joint press conference in the Rose Garden.

Leaders to discuss Israel-Hamas war

The two leaders are expected to discuss topics including China, Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war.

“The president’s looking forward to the state visit, there is an awful lot on the plate with this important ally and partner in the region,” John Kirby, the US National Security Council spokesman, told reporters ahead of the visit.

Mr Kirby added that “we expect the situation in the Middle East to come up in the conversation”.

The Aukus security pact – which also involves Britain, and would see Australia supplied with nuclear-powered, conventionally-armed submarines – will also be on the table.

“It will be an important visit,” Mr Albanese said on Sunday before leaving for the US.

“The alliance between Australia and the United States is central to Australia’s foreign policy.”

He added: “It’s very important that we remain focused on the Indo Pacific region,” using the allies’ term for the Asia-Pacific region.

Both the US and Australia are attempting to stabilise relations with China.