U.S.-Israel Sign Memorandum of Understanding Regarding Prevention of the Supply of Arms and Related Materials to Terrorist Groups. (Jan. 16)
The U.S. Department of State announces that Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni today signed a Memorandum of Understanding concerning the prevention of the supply of arms and related materials to terrorist groups. It contains political commitments on steps the United States and Israel will take to stem the flow of weapons and explosives into Gaza. [more]
Iran's Nuclear Program
Secretary Rice (Jan. 12): "Well, there are no perfect policies. These are tough choices. And one set of policies brings a set of consequences, other policies could bring even greater unintended consequences. Because after all, we are dealing with Iran not just in terms of its nuclear program, but also in a regional context." Full Text
Remarks At the United Nations Security Council Session On the Situation in the Middle East
 Secretary Rice (Jan. 6): "The United States is, of course, deeply concerned about the situation in Gaza, which is clearly worsening. We have been working around the clock to try and end the violence there. The ongoing attacks against Israel and the decision that Hamas made not to respect the previous period of calm shows us that when this ends there must be new arrangements in place, not a return to the status quo ante. It is imperative that any cease-fire is durable and sustainable, and that it ensures the safety and security of Israelis and Palestinians alike." Full Text
Situation in Gaza
Secretary Rice (Jan. 2): "We are working toward a cease-fire that would not allow a reestablishment of the status quo ante where Hamas can continue to launch rockets out of Gaza. It is obvious that that cease-fire should take place as soon as possible, but we need a cease-fire that is durable and sustainable. I might note that it was Hamas that rejected the Egyptian and Arab calls for an extension of the tahadiya that Egypt had negotiated." Full Text | Press statement | 
