By continuing to strengthen America’s historic partnership with Israel, we promote and enhance our own economic and security interests both here in the United States and abroad.  As the lone democracy in the Middle East, Israel is a beacon of hope in a region that has been plagued by religious and civil wars, violence and violations of human rights, and the United States must continue to support Israel’s efforts to achieve security and peace within the region.

Congress must not only maintain our close relationship with Israel, but also strengthen it further through a continued commitment to foreign aid, non-proliferation (especially with respect to Iran), economic development and peace. The Israeli government has repeatedly expressed its support for a two-state solution: the creation of a Palestinian state that will live in peace and security alongside its neighbor, Israel. This commitment should be applauded and actively supported by the United States, and we should do everything we can to encourage and support responsible negotiations to achieve that goal. When elected, I will be a staunch supporter of the Middle East Peace Process, and of Israel’s right to exist as a sovereign Jewish state in peace and security.