More Quotes
“I will never give up on the hope for peace between Israelis and Palestinians, and the United States will never stop working to realize that goal. As I said when I visited Ramallah two years ago, Palestinians deserve an end to the occupation and the daily indignities that come with it; they deserve to live in an independent, sovereign state, where they can give their children a life of dignity and opportunity. And as I said in my speech to the Israeli people on that same trip, peace between Israelis and Palestinians is necessary, it is just, and it is possible. It is also in the national security interest of the United States. That’s why we’ve worked so hard over the years for a two-state solution and to develop innovative ways to address Israel’s security and Palestinian sovereignty needs.
With the breakdown of talks, simmering tension in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, last summer’s conflict in Gaza, and serious questions about overall commitment to a two-state outcome, it’s no secret that we now have a very difficult path forward. As a result, the United States is taking a hard look at our approach to the conflict.
We look to the new Israeli government and the Palestinians to demonstrate—through policies and actions—a genuine commitment to a two-state solution. Only then can trust be rebuilt and a cycle of escalation avoided. Addressing the lasting impact in Gaza of last summer’s conflict should also be central to any effort. Ultimately, the parties will need to address not just Gaza’s immediate humanitarian and reconstruction needs, but also core challenges to Gaza’s future within a two-state context, including reinvigorating Gaza’s connection with the West Bank and reestablishing strong commercial links with Israel and the global economy.” (Interview with Asharq al-Awsat, 12/5/2015.)
“As President Obama has emphasized, the US places great importance on our close military, intelligence & security cooperation w/#Israel” (A White House statement, via Twitter, 07/05/2015)
“Congratulations to David Cameron on an impressive victory and renewed mandate. I look forward to working with you on shared goals of peace and prosperity.” (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, via Facebook, 10/05/2015)
“Congratulations to David Cameron on his re-election as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. As chairman of the Israel-United Kingdom Parliamentary Friendship Group I mean to continue to strengthen the relationship between our Parliaments and our nations.” (Zionist Union MK Hilik Bar via Facebook, 08/05/2015)
“61 seats is a good number. 61-plus is a better number. But it starts with 61, and we will begin with that … We have a lot of work ahead of us.” (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaking at the Knesset, 06/05/2015)
“We must all line up against racism, condemn it and work to eradicate it. The ministerial committee that I will chair will advance plans to resolve problems in education, housing, culture, religion, employment and in other areas.” (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaking to his cabinet, 04/05/2015)