January 2, 2009
Israel has the right to ensure its security as it has done in response to the unremitting rocket attacks from Gaza by Hamas. The United States must continue to support the defense of its valued ally Israel; however, we must also work much more effectively than we have in the recent past to achieve a long term diplomatic resolution to the overall Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This requires the U.S. to take a much greater leadership role in the Middle East, beginning with bringing a swift end to this ongoing conflict. Then, leading a regional effort, the United States must use this conflict’s peaceful resolution as an opportunity to build a path to permanent peace in the Middle East. —
When I served in the White House as Director of Defense Policy in the Clinton Administration, I saw the value of U.S. leadership efforts to engage in diplomacy around the world, including with Israel and the Palestinians. We need to assume the mantle of leadership in that region because a safe and secure Israel is necessary not only for the people of Israel, but also for the region, the United States and its allies and friends.
Media Contact:
Alix Gerz
Alix.gerz@mail.house.gov
610-892-8623