I do hope that in our lifetime we can see a two-state solution that is negotiated with both parties and we can see peace in that region of the world.

I believe it is in our national security interest that the United States unequivocally continues to stand by our democratic partner, Israel.

Our objective, as an administration, again, which I assume is a shared objective, is: What can we do to defuse tensions?

Simply put, we cannot expect the U.N. to perform if we starve it of the resources it requires or if we regard our treaty obligations as optional.

The U.N. is instrumental in advancing our national security interests around the world and in helping confront terrorism, nuclear proliferation, infectious disease, extreme poverty, and environmental degradation.

I am particularly concerned about its actions with regard to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and comments by the Obama administration suggesting a reevaluation of our longstanding policy of defending Israel at the U.N.

Since 1948, the United States has been a steadfast defender of the State of Israel at the United Nations.

I must say I have been asking this question for months, and I was pleased to hear from the Secretary that this is an absolute given if there is going to be a deal.

What about Russia? What are they really up to?

This is an important hearing, and I believe we all owe the thousands of U.S. personnel a debt of gratitude for combatting the deadliest Ebola outbreak the world has ever seen.

We commend the U.S. military and government agencies who have responded to this crisis, but we must ensure that there has not been unnecessary duplication of effort.