On the recordJune 9, 2010
The administration focused today on humanitarian and development assistance to strengthen the Palestinian Authority so it can serve as a viable partner in peace to Israel. But Abu Mazen must make clear to all the Palestinian people that their security and prosperous future--and we've seen an 11 percent growth in the West Bank--depends on rejecting Hamas, recognizing Israel, and working with the international community and Israel to achieve a two-state solution. Despite the current tense environment, some positive steps have been taken that will improve Israel's security as well as bolster U.S. national security interests. Iran continues to be an existential threat to Israel, the region, and the world. I am pleased today's agreement by the U.N. Security Council to impose multilateral sanctions on Iran will hold the regime accountable for its reckless pursuit of nuclear weapons, and I look forward to Congress finalizing strong bilateral sanctions and urge European partners and other responsible countries to do the same. We must continue to strongly support the U.S.-Israeli partnership which provides invaluable benefits to both of our countries' national securities.
