New York, NY - Late yesterday, Senator Clinton received a briefing on the current situation in Israel in a private meeting with Tzipi Livni, Israel’s Foreign Minister. During the meeting they discussed Israel’s security and the status of the kidnapped Israeli soldiers.

“During my meeting yesterday with Israeli Foreign Minister Livni, I expressed my support for Israel in its efforts to combat terrorism and provide for the security of its people. The kidnapping of Israeli soldiers that precipitated the conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza have not yet been resolved, and it is essential that Israel's abducted soldiers are returned to Israel unconditionally. Two weeks ago, I met with the family members of one of the soldiers abducted in Israel near the Lebanese border. They spoke eloquently and movingly about the importance of securing the safe return of the captured soldiers. Israel’s right to exist, and exist in safety, must never be put in question and we must continue to stand by Israel as it defends itself and seeks the return of its soldiers.”

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