Ben Cardin

There is no dispute that there is active hostility in Gaza. That is not the issue. The question is whether American troops have been engaged in that hostility, and they are not. That is when the War Powers Act is triggered. American…

America's leadership made a huge difference in a very positive commitment to deal with the threat against our globe on climate.

Iran's threat is real. But the way that the Biden administration and you have answered that... was extraordinary leadership.

I want to complete this hearing where I started, and that is a thank you to you for restoring America's global leadership, and President Biden.

That is why virtually every international aid organization that has operated worldwide for decades says they have never experienced a worse manmade humanitarian disaster than that in Gaza.

That is why the President has tried to create some light at the end of this very dark tunnel by calling for recognition of Israel by Saudi Arabia and others, paired with a clear time line for the establishment of a viable Palestinian state.

That transatlantic partnership that was restored by the Biden administration was absolutely essential.

The Department of State and the work of our diplomats do every day has never been more important.

But to not adhere to American values in foreign policy decisions is making a major strategic mistake.

But as the President and you and others have pointed out, in order to achieve a durable end to the conflict we need to build a future that has security and dignity and hope for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

We need to incentivize diversity initiatives and modernize the training and professional developments for our diplomats to deal with the 21st century challenges.

Knowing where our North Star is matters.

But I think we all agree that we are stronger when we work together, and when we coordinate our activities and work in unity it is a lot better for our nation.

This country was founded on a unique basis in the words of our Declaration of Independence that all men are created equal.

The only way there is going to be lasting peace in the Middle East is if there is a genuine path forward for the Palestinians and Israelis to live side by side in peace.

To be true to our founding principles we need to support those people trying to defend human rights, those rights endowed to us by our Creator.

I often speak about the importance of adhering to our values and our foreign policy.

This new law will oblige the Administration to publish a public report detailing which countries around the world are sustaining or making good progress in anti-corruption efforts.

The Department of State is determined to implement the Combating Global Corruption Act and to support it with the necessary resources.

Modernizing the Department has taken on greater urgency--from finally completing renovations at main state and our embassies abroad to sustaining the Department's diverse workforce.

In the 21st century, diplomacy has never been more important.

I believe we must do everything in our power to avoid getting into another nuclear arms race.

I can assure you that we heard you loud and clear, and we will very much be engaged.

Supporting Black American businesses is not just about economic empowerment. It is about fostering a more inclusive and just society.

Discrimination against minority and women business owners is as despicable as it is pervasive.