Madam Secretary, I would like to extend our warmest welcome to you today.

I praise your grace under pressure.

Promoting stability in this troubled region is a central component of U.S. security strategy.

The National Security Strategy of the U.S. identifies fighting terrorism and the proliferation of unconventional weapons and ballistic missiles as the overarching priority for our nation. 

Could Iranian nuclear proliferation constitute a “tipping point” in the Middle East?

Were Iran to achieve nuclear status, do you believe that others will consider nuclear options as part of their defense strategy?

Will the Gulf Security Dialogue and related arms sales be sufficient to deter further nuclear proliferation in the region?

Do you believe that the announced pursuit of a US-Jordan nuclear cooperation agreement furthers or undermines US nonproliferation goals?

We have failed in the last decade to fully implement US law regarding Iran and we are following the same path with Syria. 

On Syria, Madam Secretary, please address reports quoting unnamed US officials confirming that the Israeli raid targeted a Syrian nuclear facility which had been in existence at least 8 months and that it was built with North Korean expertise.

Fortunately, if we take action now, we have the opportunity to address the Syrian threat before it escalates further.

Finally, one of the most central problems, of course, is the decades-old conflict between Israel and those who seek to destroy it.

Madam Secretary, some have questioned the efficacy of pursuing “final status” issues through Israeli-Palestinian negotiations at this time.

After all, Hamas controls the Gaza Strip, and Abu Mazen remains unwilling to truly confront Palestinian terrorism, for the sake of his people and long-lasting peace and security with Israel.

I would greatly appreciate it if you would address the Administration’s definition of "success" for the upcoming summit in Annapolis.

All of these issues are inter-connected and none have easy answers. 

Again, I thank you for appearing today before the Committee, and I welcome your remarks.