US POLICY TOWARDS THE MIDDLE EAST

Transcription

1 US POLICY TOWARDS THE MIDDLE EAST The Obama Speech of May 19, 2011, the Supporting Fact Sheets, and the President s Follow Up Comments and Speeches on US Policy Towards Israel and the Arab-Israeli Peace Process Anthony H. Cordesman Arleigh A. Burke Chair in Strategy June 2011

2 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 2 There has been a great deal of confusion as to what President Obama did and did not say in his speech on US policy towards the Middle East and in his clarifying remarks on US policy towards Israel and the Arab-Israeli peace process. This document provides the full set of Fact Sheets the White House issued on US policy towards the Middle East and North Africa, and US policy towards Israel and the Arab-Israeli peace process during May and early June It is designed as a reference that surveys US policy and no additions or comments are made on the material provided. The document contains the following fact sheets and texts: Fact Sheet on Speech by President Barack Obama A Moment of Opportunity" in the Middle East and North Africa, May 19, 2011 Washington, DC... 3 Fact Sheet: President Obama: Advancing Israel's Security and Supporting Peace: White House, June 3, President Obama s Remarks to AIPAC Policy Conference: May 22, Fact Sheet: G-8 and the Middle East and North Africa; White House, May 23, U.S. Support for Democratic Reform in Bahrain: Fact Sheets Supporting President Obama s Middle East Speech of May 19, 2011 Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 19, Transition and Reform in Yemen: Fact Sheets Supporting President Obama s Middle East Speech of May 19, 2011 Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 19, Syria: Fact Sheets Supporting President Obama s Middle East Speech of May 19, 2011 Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 19, Holding Iran Accountable: Fact Sheets Supporting President Obama s Middle East Speech of May 19, 2011 Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 19, Strengthening Iraq: Fact Sheets Supporting President Obama s Middle East Speech of May 19, 2011 Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 19, Assistance to Egypt: Fact Sheets Supporting President Obama s Middle East Speech of May 19, 2011 Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 19, Tunisian Transition and U.S. Support: Fact Sheets Supporting President Obama s Middle East Speech of May 19, 2011 Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 19, Jordan: Fact Sheets Supporting President Obama s Middle East Speech of May 19, 2011 Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 19, Transition and Reform in Morocco: Fact Sheets Supporting President Obama s Middle East Speech of May 19, 2011 Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC May 19, Factsheet: Economic Support for the Middle East and North Africa, May 18, Remarks of President Barack Obama--As Prepared for Delivery--"A Moment of Opportunity," U.S. Department of State, May 19,

3 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 3 Fact Sheet on Speech by President Barack Obama A Moment of Opportunity" in the Middle East and North Africa, May 19, 2011 Washington, DC So we face an historic opportunity. We have embraced the chance to show that America values the dignity of the street vendor in Tunisia more than the raw power of the dictator. There must be no doubt that the United States of America welcomes change that advances self-determination and opportunity. Yes, there will be perils that accompany this moment of promise. But after decades of accepting the world as it is in the region, we have a chance to pursue the world as it should be. Today, recognizing the irreversible changes that have taken place in the Middle East and North Africa in recent months, President Obama announced a new approach to promoting democratic reform, economic development, and peace and security across the region. Aligning Our Interests and Our Values: The President reaffirmed his commitment to a set of core principles that have guided the U.S. response to events in the Middle East and North Africa for the past six months. First, the United States opposes the use of violence and repression against the people of the region. Second, we support a set of universal rights including free speech; the freedom of peaceful assembly and association; equality for men and women under the rule of law; the right to practice your religion without fear of violence or discrimination; and the right to choose your own leaders through democratic elections. Third, we support political and economic change in the Middle East and North Africa that can meet the legitimate aspirations of the people throughout the region. Our support for these principles is a top priority and central to the pursuit of other interests in the region. The U.S. will marshal all our diplomatic, economic, and strategic tools to support these principles. The status quo is not fair, nor stable. And it can no longer secure the core interests of the United States. Ultimately, our values and our interests will be better advanced by a region that is more democratic and prosperous. Promoting Democratic Reform: It will be the policy of the United States to promote reform across the region and to support transitions to democracy. Real and durable democratic change in Tunisia and Egypt could have a transformative effect on the region and beyond. We will support free and fair elections, a vibrant civil society, basic rights to speak your mind and access information, and strong democratic institutions in both nations. We will empower women as drivers of peace and prosperity, supporting their right to run for office and meaningfully participate in decision-making because, around the world, history shows that countries are more prosperous and peaceful when women are more empowered. And we will deliver an economic program that reinforces our strong support for the transitions that are now underway. The United States will also stand up for human rights and democracy in those countries where transitions have yet to take place. We will make the case to our partners that reform is in our shared interest. We will be a strong voice for democratic reform - a message we will deliver consistently, at high-levels, and across the U.S. government. We will strengthen and protect advocates for reform. Our message to governments in the region will be simple and clear: if you take the risks that reform entails, you will have the support and partnership of the United States. A New Chapter of American Diplomacy: As the U.S. continues to work with governments, we will broaden and elevate our engagement with the people of the region. Building on our efforts since Cairo, our engagement will reach beyond elites and extend beyond capitals, cultivating reformist voices both inside and outside government. We will engage with and listen to those that will shape the future, particularly young people and women. Across the region, we will provide assistance to legitimate and independent groups, including some not officially recognized by governments. And we will expand and deepen our ties with entrepreneurs, and our cooperation on science and technology. We will engage, too, with all groups that reject violence, support democratic practices, and respect the rights of minorities, even if we don t agree with them. Using the same connective technologies that helped power the protests, we will connect and listen to the people of the region and factor the concerns of all these individuals and groups into our policy choices. Making this strategic shift in our own approach will not always be easy. It demands that we renew and reshape our partnerships with governments in the region, and forge a deeper connection to a new generation that is desperate for a new beginning. President Obama will issue a Presidential Directive in the coming weeks to direct his Cabinet and national security team to put this new approach into action. The United States is already putting this approach into practice across the region:

4 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 4 Bahrain: The United States is committed to Bahrain s security. However, we believe that reform is the only path to enduring stability in Bahrain and that both sides must compromise to forge a just future for all Bahrainis. The only way forward is for the government and opposition to engage in a dialogue. The government must create the conditions for dialogue, and the opposition must participate to forge a just future for all Bahrainis. Egypt: The United States supports an orderly, peaceful, and legitimate transition to a representative and responsive government committed to democratic principles in Egypt. It is important to empower positive models, and Egypt is critical as the largest Arab country and an enduring partner of the United States. We are encouraged by some of the steps that the interim government has taken on the political front, and we support a fully transparent and inclusive process moving forward. The U.S. is working with the international community to identify ways to stabilize Egypt s economy in the short-term and promote economic policies for the medium and long-term that will help ensure economic prosperity accompanies the transition. Jordan: The United States is committed to our long-standing partnership with Jordan a regional leader on political and economic reform. We recognize the government s efforts to respond to the legitimate demands of citizens through the National Dialogue Committee, and urge Jordan s leadership to seize this opportunity to advance meaningful reforms. U.S economic assistance supports Jordan s economic growth and development and promotes political, economic, and social reforms though programs in judicial reform, education, public health, job creation, and youth empowerment. We are also working with nongovernmental partners is Jordan to cultivate a vibrant civil society. The United States also remains committed to Jordan s security and continues to provide security assistance aimed at, among other things, modernizing the Jordanian military and enhancing border security. Libya: The United States led an international effort to intervene in Libya to stop a massacre joining with with our allies at the UN Security Council to pass a historic resolution that authorized a no-fly zone and further authorized all necessary measures to protect the Libyan people. At the start of the air campaign, the President pledged to the American people that U.S. military action would be limited in duration and scope and that we would ultimately transition from a U.S. to a coalition lead. The President has made good on that pledge. Now that we have transitioned to a NATO lead, we will continue to play an important role in the international community s effort to put pressure on Col. Qaddafi and to protect innocent civilians that his regime continues to attack. The President has made clear, Qaddafi has lost the confidence of the Libyan people and he must go. At the same time, the United States is engaging and assisting the Transitional National Council, a legitimate and credible interlocutor, which is committed to an inclusive, democratic political transition in Libya. We are also working to address humanitarian needs in Libya and along its borders. Morocco: The United States supports Morocco s efforts to promote ongoing democratic development through constitutional, judicial, and political reforms. We recognize the Moroccan government s efforts to respond the demands of its citizens and we urge the government to implement these crucial reforms. We are working with the people and the government of Morocco to support their efforts to consolidate the rule of law, protect human rights, improve governance, empower youth, and works towards meaningful constitutional reform. This includes a robust dialogue on human rights and political freedom. Syria: The United States condemns the Syrian government s murder and mass arrests of its people. We have imposed additional sanctions on the regime, including on President Assad and his inner circle. We stand by the Syrian people who have shown their courage in demanding dignity and a transition to democracy. President Assad now has a choice: he can lead that transition, or get out of the way. Tunisia: The United States is committed to supporting the Tunisian people as they build the stronger democratic foundations needed for long-term stability and broad-based economic growth. We welcome the significant steps that have been taken to advance the democratic transition, and will support Tunisians inside and outside of government as they hold democratic elections, craft a new constitution, and implement a broad-based reform agenda. We will support a new partnership between Tunisian civil society groups and technology companies in order to get more information, communications capacity available broadly throughout society.

5 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 5 Yemen: The United States supports the aspirations of the Yemeni people for a more stable, unified, and prosperous nation, and we are committed to assisting them in this courageous pursuit. We are also committed to assisting Yemen to eradicate the security threat from al-qa ida in the Arabian Peninsula. President Saleh needs to follow through on his commitment to transfer power. We support a peaceful and orderly transfer of power that begins immediately. Supporting Economic Development: To ensure that democratic change is reinforced by increasing economic opportunity, the President laid out a new economic vision for the region to support nations that commit to transition to democracy. We will also focus on rooting out corruption and other barriers to progress. Our efforts will create incentives for nations to pursue a path to democracy and modern economies and will also help tap the enormous potential of the region s young people. Our approach is based around four key pillars support for economic policy formulation, support for economic stability, support for economic modernization, and the development of a framework for trade integration and investment. Support for Better Economic Management: We will offer concrete support to foster improved economic policy formulation and management alongside our democratization efforts. We will focus not only on promoting economic fundamentals, but also transparency and the prevention of corruption. We will use our bilateral programs to support economic reform preparations, including outreach and technical assistance from our governments, universities, and think tanks to regional governments that have embraced reform, individuals, and NGOs. We will mobilize the knowledge and expertise of international financial institutions to support home grown reforms that increase accountability. Support for Economic Stability: Egypt and Tunisia have begun their transitions. Their economic outlooks were positive before recent events, but they are now facing a series of economic dislocations. o o Galvanizing Financial Support: We are galvanizing financial support from international financial institutions and Egypt and Tunisia s regional partners to help meet near term financial needs. Turning the Debts of the Past Into Investments in the Future: The United States will relieve Egypt of up to $1 billion in debt by designing a debt swap arrangement, and swap it in a way that allows Egypt to invest these resources in creating jobs and fostering entrepreneurship. Support for Economic Modernization: We realize that the modernization of the economies in Middle East and North Africa will require a stronger private sector. To address that, we are committed to working with our international counterparts to support a reorientation of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to support countries in the region. The Bank played a crucial role in supporting democratization and economic transition in Central and Eastern Europe and can make a great contribution in Middle East and North Africa as well. We also seek to establish Egyptian-American and Tunisian- American Enterprise Funds to stimulate private sector investment, to promote projects and procedures that support competitive markets, and to encourage public/private partnerships. And as Secretary Clinton announced in Cairo, the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) will provide up to $2 billion dollars in financial support for private sectors throughout the MENA region. Develop a Framework for Trade Integration and Investment: The United States will launch a comprehensive Trade and Investment Partnership Initiative in the Middle East and North Africa. We will work with the European Union as we launch step-by-step initiatives that will facilitate more robust trade within the region, build on existing agreements to promote greater integration with U.S. and European markets, and open the door for those countries who adopt high standards of reform and trade liberalization to construct a regional trade arrangement. Promoting Peace and Security: Even as we change our policy approach in response to political and economic changes in region, the United States maintains its commitment to pursue peace and stability in the region. We remain committed to our non-proliferation agenda in the region and worldwide and continue to demand that Iran meets its international obligation to halt its nuclear weapons program. Our counterterrorism agenda is as robust as ever, as evidenced by the recent takedown of Osama bin Laden. We will continue to take the fight to al Qa`ida and its affiliates wherever they are. The Broad Outlines of Middle East Peace: The President seeks to shape an environment in which negotiations can restart when the parties are ready. He intends to do this laying out principles on territorial borders and security.

6 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 6 On territory, the boundaries of Israel and the Palestinian state should be based on the 1967 lines with mutually agreed swaps. On security the Palestinian state must be non-militarized, and the full and phased withdrawal of Israeli forces would be geared to the ability of Palestinian security forces and other arrangements as agreed to prevent a resurgence of terrorism; stop the infiltration of weapons; and provide effective border security. The duration of this transition period must be agreed, and may vary for different areas like borders. But it must be sufficient to demonstrate the effectiveness and credibility of security arrangements. Once Palestinians can be confident in the outlines of their state, and Israelis are confident that the new Palestinian state will not imperil its security, the parties will be in a position to grapple with the core issues of refugees and Jerusalem. Ultimately, it is up to Israelis and Palestinians to take action. No peace can be imposed upon them, nor can endless delay make the problem go away. But what America and the international community can do is state frankly what everyone knows: a lasting peace will involve two states for two peoples. Israel as a Jewish state and the homeland for the Jewish people, and the state of Palestine as the homeland for the Palestinian people; each state enjoying selfdetermination, mutual recognition, and peace. Ending the Combat Mission in Iraq, Building a Strategic Partnership: President Obama kept his commitment to responsibly end our combat mission in Iraq, bringing home 100,000 troops and transitioning to a full Iraqi lead for security in the country. Consistent with the 2008 Security Agreement, the United States intends to withdraw our remaining troops by the end of the year, while our civilians strengthen an enduring partnership with the Iraqi people and government in economic, diplomatic, cultural, and security fields. Surged in Afghanistan: The strategy in Afghanistan is working. With the addition of 30,000 U.S. forces, nearly 10,000 coalition forces, and almost 1000 civilians, the surge is achieving its intended effect. We have arrested the Taliban s momentum and placed the insurgency under significant military pressure. Increasingly, our collective efforts are focused intensely on providing trainers and funding for Afghan National Security Forces to support their assuming lead security responsibility, significantly growing the Afghan Security Forces to nearly 300,000. Even as we begin to reduce our U.S. combat forces this July, and increasingly focus on advising and assisting the Afghan security forces, we are working toward completion of a renewed partnership agreement with the Afghans that will affirm our enduring commitment to stability in Afghanistan. Finally, we are equally committed to an Afghan-led political process toward a peaceful resolution. Focused on Al Qa`ida: We have applied unprecedented pressure to disrupt, dismantle and defeat al Qa`ida and its adherents. We have disrupted plots at home, and increased military, intelligence, and diplomatic support to expand the capacity of our partners from Pakistan to Yemen; from Southeast Asia to Somalia. Over half of Al Qa`ida s top leadership has been killed or captured, including, most recently, Al Qa`ida s leader, Osama bin Laden. As the President noted in announcing Bin Laden s death to the American people, his demise does not mark the end of our effort, as al-qa`ida remains intent on and capable of striking the United States and our partners. Political Change in the Middle East and North Africa: The United States has demonstrated with its response to the political change in the Middle East and North Africa that promoting representative, responsive governance is a core tenet of U.S. foreign policy and directly contributes to our counterterrorism goals. Governments that place the will of their people first and encourage peaceful change through their policies, systems, and actions directly contradict the al-qa`ida ideology, which at its core advocates for violent change and dismisses the right of the people to choose how they will be governed. Effective governance reduces the traction and space for al-qa`ida, limiting its resonance and contributing to what it most fears irrelevance. Standing Up for Universal Rights in Iran: The Administration has strongly condemned Iran s violent repression at home and will continue to call on the government of Iran to allow the Iranian people the universal right to peacefully assemble and communicate. Just as we hold Iran accountable for its defiance of its international obligations on the nuclear program, we will continue to take actions to hold the Iranian government accountable for its gross human rights violations, including by designating Iranian officials and entities engaged in such violations. We will continue to provide capacity building training and new media tools to help Iranian citizens and civil society make their voices heard in calling for greater freedoms, transparency, and rule of law from their government.

7 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 7 Fact Sheet: President Obama: Advancing Israel's Security and Supporting Peace: White House, June 3, 2011 For the Palestinians, efforts to delegitimize Israel will end in failure. Symbolic actions to isolate Israel at the United Nations in September won t create an independent state. Palestinian leaders will not achieve peace or prosperity if Hamas insists on a path of terror and rejection. And Palestinians will never realize their independence by denying the right of Israel to exist. As for Israel, our friendship is rooted deeply in a shared history and shared values. Our commitment to Israel s security is unshakeable. And we will stand against attempts to single it out for criticism in international forums. But precisely because of our friendship, it s important that we tell the truth: The status quo is unsustainable, and Israel too must act boldly to advance a lasting peace. President Barack Obama May 19, 2011 President Obama has worked closely with the Israelis and Palestinians to end the conflict. He has stated frankly what everyone knows -- a lasting peace will involve two states for two peoples: Israel as a Jewish state and the homeland for the Jewish people, and the state of Palestine as the homeland for the Palestinian people, each state enjoying self determination, mutual recognition, and peace. President Obama believes that the core issues can only be negotiated and resolved in direct talks between the parties. This means that Israel will have to agree for a deal to be reached. The President has emphasized that no vote at the United Nations will ever create an independent Palestinian state. President Obama said that a peace agreement must be based on borders and security arrangements that do not leave Israel vulnerable. President Obama has said that the basis of the negotiations is clear lines with mutually agreed swaps so that secure and recognized borders are established for both states. This territorial formula, which has been used in Israeli-Palestinian negotiations for decades, means that the parties themselves will negotiate a border that is different than the one that existed on June 4, 1967 to account for the changes that have taken place over the last 44 years. This includes new demographic realities and the needs of both sides. This formula of 1967 lines with mutually agreed swaps is fully consistent with the positions of earlier U.S. Administrations, including the 2004 Bush-Sharon letters. The President believes that every state has the right to self-defense, and that Israel must be able to defend itself by itself against any threat. He said that the security provisions of an agreement must be robust enough to prevent a resurgence of terrorism, to stop the infiltration of weapons, and to provide effective border security. He also said that the duration of the transition period must be agreed and of sufficient time for the security provisions to demonstrate their effectiveness. President Obama has made clear that Israel cannot be expected to negotiate with Hamas, a terrorist group sworn to its destruction. In his speeches in Cairo, at the United Nations, and elsewhere, the President has consistently demanded that Hamas accept Israel s right to exist, reject violence, and adhere to all existing agreements, before it can play a role in achieving Middle East peace. The President has spoken out forcefully to condemn Hamas attacks against Israelis. He has made clear that it is a sign neither of courage nor power to shoot rockets at sleeping children, or to blow up old women on a bus. That s not how moral authority is claimed; that s how it is surrendered. At the United Nations, he emphasized that the slaughter of innocent Israelis is not resistance -- it s injustice.

8 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 8 President Obama has called on all sides, Arabs, Palestinians, and Israelis alike, to do their part to help achieve Middle East peace. In Cairo, the President said that Arab states must recognize that they too have responsibilities to move towards peace, including by fostering a culture of peace. He said clearly that threatening Israel with destruction or repeating vile stereotypes about Jews is deeply wrong, and that denying the Holocaust is baseless, ignorant, and hateful. At the United Nations in 2010, the President said I know many in this hall count themselves as friends of the Palestinians. But these pledges of friendship must now be supported by deeds. He added that those who long to see an independent Palestine must also stop trying to tear down Israel, and that after 60 years in the community of nations, Israel s existence must not be a subject for debate. In his May 19, 2011 speech, President Obama emphasized that a peace agreement must meet the needs of both sides, including by: ending the conflict and resolving all claims, achieving the goal of two states for two peoples with Israel as a Jewish state and homeland for the Jewish people, achieving secure and recognized borders for both sides, and devising robust security arrangements that will not leave Israel vulnerable. President Obama has strongly opposed any effort to de-legitimize Israel or single it out in international forums. This is why the Obama Administration withdrew from the Durban Review Conference when it advanced anti-israel sentiment, stood up strongly for Israel s right to defend itself after the Goldstone Report, and vetoed the effort to insert the UN into matters that should be resolved between Israelis and Palestinians. In Cairo and at the United Nations, the President made clear that Israel s legitimacy is not a matter for debate. In his May 19, 2001 speech, he said: When I touched my hand against the Western Wall and placed my prayer between its ancient stones, I thought of all the centuries that the children of Israel had longed to return to their ancient homeland. President Obama has strengthened Israel s security in tangible and concrete ways. Despite tough fiscal times, President Obama fought for and secured full funding for Israel in the FY 2011 appropriation bill, which includes $3 billion in Foreign Military Financing the largest amount of funding for Israel in U.S. history. President Obama then secured an additional $205 million to help produce an Israeli-developed short-range rocket defense system called Iron Dome, which has recently helped defend Israeli communities against rocket attacks. Prime Minister Netanyahu told the AIPAC conference on May 23 that Yesterday President Obama spoke about his ironclad commitment to Israel's security. He rightly said that our security cooperation is unprecedented And he has backed those words with deeds. President Obama has expanded U.S.-Israeli security and military cooperation on security challenges ranging from counterterrorism to preventing arms smuggling to Gaza to missile defense. In 2010, there were nearly 200 senior-level Department of Defense visitors to Israel, and Israeli officials visit the United States just as often. The United States and Israel conducted their largest ever joint military exercise, Juniper Cobra, in October Israeli forces now benefit from joint exercises and training opportunities, access to advanced U.S. military hardware, emergency stockpiles, and favorable terms for the acquisition of equipment.

9 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 9 President Obama has generated more international pressure on the Iranian regime than ever before. President Obama has said that the United States is determined to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He has backed up this commitment with tangible steps to increase pressure substantially on the Iranian regime and raise the costs of its defiance of the international community. With President Obama s leadership, the United States gained the support of Russia, China and other nations to pass United Nations Security Council resolution 1929, creating the most comprehensive and biting international sanctions regime the Iranian government has ever faced. This resolution imposes restrictions on Iran s nuclear activities, ballistic missile program, conventional military exports to Iran, Iranian banks and financial transactions, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The Obama Administration also worked with allies such as the European Union, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, Canada, and others to adopt additional national measures to increase pressure on the Iranian regime, including in the financial, banking, insurance, transportation, and energy sectors. Iran is now virtually cut off from large parts of the international financial system. In addition to multilateral sanctions, President Obama worked with Congress to pass the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act, which strengthens existing U.S. sanctions, and makes it harder for the Iranian government to buy refined petroleum and the goods it needs to modernize its oil and gas sector. Already close to $60 billion in energy-related projects in Iran have been put on hold or discontinued. International companies are increasingly recognizing the risks of doing business with Iran and are abandoning existing business opportunities, declining to take advantage of new ones, and scaling back any existing relationships. This trend has been replicated across a broad range of industries. Examples of companies withdrawing from business with Iran include: Shell, Total, ENI, Statoil, Repsol, Lukoil, Kia, Toyota, Siemens, and foreign subsidiaries of U.S. firms such as GE, Honeywell, and Caterpillar.

10 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/ :56 A.M. EDT President Obama s Remarks to AIPAC Policy Conference: May 22, 2011 THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. Thank you very much. (Applause.) Good morning. Thank you. Thank you so much. Please, have a seat. Thank you. What a remarkable, remarkable crowd. Thank you, Rosy, for your very kind introduction. I did not know you played basketball. (Laughter.) I will take your word for it. (Laughter.) Rosy, thank you for your many years of friendship. Back in Chicago, when I was just getting started in national politics, I reached out to a lot of people for advice and counsel, and Rosy was one of the very first. When I made my first visit to Israel, after entering the Senate, Rosy, you were at my side every step of that profound journey through the Holy Land. So I want to thank you for your enduring friendship, your leadership, and for your warm introduction today. I also want to thank David Victor, Howard Kohr and all the board of directors. And let me say that it is wonderful to look out and see so many great friends, including a very large delegation from Chicago. (Applause.) Alan Solow, Howard Green. Thank you all. I want to thank the members of Congress who are joining you today -- who do so much to sustain the bonds between the United States and Israel, including Eric Cantor -- (applause) -- Steny Hoyer -- (applause) -- and the tireless leader I was proud to appoint as the new chair of the DNC, Debbie Wasserman Schultz. (Applause.) We re joined by Israel s representative to the United States, Ambassador Michael Oren. (Applause.) And we re joined by one of my top advisors on Israel and the Middle East for the past four years and who I know is going to be an outstanding ambassador to Israel, Dan Shapiro. (Applause.) Dan has always been a close and trusted advisor and friend, and I know that he will do a terrific job. And at a time when so many young people around the world are standing up and making their voices heard, I also want to acknowledge all the college students from across the country who are here today. (Applause.) No one has a greater stake in the outcome of events that are unfolding today than your generation, and it s inspiring to see you devote your time and energy to help shape that future. Now, I m not here to subject you to a long policy speech. I gave one on Thursday in which I said that the United States sees the historic changes sweeping the Middle East and North Africa as a moment of great challenge, but also a moment of opportunity for greater peace and security for the entire region, including the State of Israel. On Friday, I was joined at the White House by Prime Minister Netanyahu, and we reaffirmed -- (applause) -- we reaffirmed that fundamental truth that has guided our presidents and prime ministers for more than 60 years -- that even while we may at times disagree, as friends sometimes will, the bonds between the United States and Israel are unbreakable -- (applause) -- and the commitment of the United States to the security of Israel is ironclad. (Applause.) A strong and secure Israel is in the national security interest of the United States not simply because we share strategic interests, although we do both seek a region where families and children can live free from the threat of violence. It s not simply because we face common dangers, although there can be no denying that terrorism and the spread of nuclear weapons are grave threats to both our nations. America s commitment to Israel s security flows from a deeper place -- and that s the values we share. As two people who struggled to win our freedom against overwhelming odds, we understand that preserving the security for which our forefathers -- and foremothers -- fought must be the work of every generation. As two vibrant democracies, we recognize that the liberties and freedoms we cherish must be constantly nurtured. And as the nation that recognized the State of Israel moments after its independence, we have a profound commitment to its survival as a strong, secure homeland for the Jewish people. (Applause.)

11 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 11 We also know how difficult that search for security can be, especially for a small nation like Israel living in a very tough neighborhood. I ve seen it firsthand. When I touched my hand against the Western Wall and placed my prayer between its ancient stones, I thought of all the centuries that the children of Israel had longed to return to their ancient homeland. When I went to Sderot and saw the daily struggle to survive in the eyes of an eight-year-old boy who lost his leg to a Hamas rocket, and when I walked among the Hall of Names at Yad Vashem, I was reminded of the existential fear of Israelis when a modern dictator seeks nuclear weapons and threatens to wipe Israel off the face of the map -- face of the Earth. Because we understand the challenges Israel faces, I and my administration have made the security of Israel a priority. It s why we ve increased cooperation between our militaries to unprecedented levels. It s why we re making our most advanced technologies available to our Israeli allies. (Applause.) It s why, despite tough fiscal times, we ve increased foreign military financing to record levels. (Applause.) And that includes additional support - beyond regular military aid - for the Iron Dome anti-rocket system. (Applause.) A powerful example of American-Israeli cooperation -- a powerful example of American-Israeli cooperation which has already intercepted rockets from Gaza and helped saved Israeli lives. So make no mistake, we will maintain Israel s qualitative military edge. (Applause.) You also see our commitment to our shared security in our determination to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. (Applause.) Here in the United States, we ve imposed the toughest sanctions ever on the Iranian regime. (Applause.) At the United Nations, under our leadership, we ve secured the most comprehensive international sanctions on the regime, which have been joined by allies and partners around the world. Today, Iran is virtually cut off from large parts of the international financial system, and we re going to keep up the pressure. So let me be absolutely clear - we remain committed to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. (Applause.) Its illicit nuclear program is just one challenge that Iran poses. As I said on Thursday, the Iranian government has shown its hypocrisy by claiming to support the rights of protesters while treating its own people with brutality. Moreover, Iran continues to support terrorism across the region, including providing weapons and funds to terrorist organizations. So we will continue to work to prevent these actions, and we will stand up to groups like Hezbollah, who exercise political assassination and seek to impose their will through rockets and car bombs. You also see our commitment to Israel s security in our steadfast opposition to any attempt to de-legitimize the State of Israel. (Applause.) As I said at the United Nations last year, Israel s existence must not be a subject for debate, and efforts to chip away at Israel s legitimacy will only be met by the unshakeable opposition of the United States. (Applause.) So when the Durban Review Conference advanced anti-israel sentiment, we withdrew. In the wake of the Goldstone Report, we stood up strongly for Israel s right to defend itself. (Applause.) When an effort was made to insert the United Nations into matters that should be resolved through direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, we vetoed it. (Applause.) And so, in both word and deed, we have been unwavering in our support of Israel s security. (Applause.) And it is precisely because of our commitment to Israel s long-term security that we have worked to advance peace between Israelis and Palestinians. (Applause.) Now, I have said repeatedly that core issues can only be negotiated in direct talks between the parties. (Applause.) And I indicated on Thursday that the recent agreement between Fatah and Hamas poses an enormous obstacle to peace. (Applause.) No country can be expected to negotiate with a terrorist organization sworn to its destruction. (Applause.) And we will continue to demand that Hamas accept the basic responsibilities of peace, including recognizing Israel s right to exist and rejecting violence and adhering to all existing agreements. (Applause.) And we once again call on Hamas to release Gilad Shalit, who has been kept from his family for five long years. (Applause.) And yet, no matter how hard it may be to start meaningful negotiations under current circumstances, we must acknowledge that a failure to try is not an option. The status quo is unsustainable. And that is why on Thursday I

12 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 12 stated publicly the principles that the United States believes can provide a foundation for negotiations toward an agreement to end the conflict and all claims -- the broad outlines of which have been known for many years, and have been the template for discussions between the United States, Israel, and the Palestinians since at least the Clinton administration. I know that stating these principles -- on the issues of territory and security -- generated some controversy over the past few days. (Laughter.) I wasn t surprised. I know very well that the easy thing to do, particularly for a President preparing for reelection, is to avoid any controversy. I don t need Rahm to tell me that. Don t need Axelrod to tell me that. But I said to Prime Minister Netanyahu, I believe that the current situation in the Middle East does not allow for procrastination. I also believe that real friends talk openly and honestly with one another. (Applause.) So I want to share with you some of what I said to the Prime Minister. Here are the facts we all must confront. First, the number of Palestinians living west of the Jordan River is growing rapidly and fundamentally reshaping the demographic realities of both Israel and the Palestinian Territories. This will make it harder and harder -- without a peace deal -- to maintain Israel as both a Jewish state and a democratic state. Second, technology will make it harder for Israel to defend itself in the absence of a genuine peace. Third, a new generation of Arabs is reshaping the region. A just and lasting peace can no longer be forged with one or two Arab leaders. Going forward, millions of Arab citizens have to see that peace is possible for that peace to be sustained. And just as the context has changed in the Middle East, so too has it been changing in the international community over the last several years. There s a reason why the Palestinians are pursuing their interests at the United Nations. They recognize that there is an impatience with the peace process, or the absence of one, not just in the Arab World -- in Latin America, in Asia, and in Europe. And that impatience is growing, and it s already manifesting itself in capitals around the world. And those are the facts. I firmly believe, and I repeated on Thursday, that peace cannot be imposed on the parties to the conflict. No vote at the United Nations will ever create an independent Palestinian state. And the United States will stand up against efforts to single Israel out at the United Nations or in any international forum. (Applause.) Israel s legitimacy is not a matter for debate. That is my commitment; that is my pledge to all of you. (Applause.) Moreover, we know that peace demands a partner - which is why I said that Israel cannot be expected to negotiate with Palestinians who do not recognize its right to exist. (Applause.) And we will hold the Palestinians accountable for their actions and for their rhetoric. (Applause.) But the march to isolate Israel internationally -- and the impulse of the Palestinians to abandon negotiations - will continue to gain momentum in the absence of a credible peace process and alternative. And for us to have leverage with the Palestinians, to have leverage with the Arab States and with the international community, the basis for negotiations has to hold out the prospect of success. And so, in advance of a five-day trip to Europe in which the Middle East will be a topic of acute interest, I chose to speak about what peace will require. There was nothing particularly original in my proposal; this basic framework for negotiations has long been the basis for discussions among the parties, including previous U.S. administrations. Since questions have been raised, let me repeat what I actually said on Thursday -- not what I was reported to have said. I said that the United States believes that negotiations should result in two states, with permanent Palestinian borders with Israel, Jordan, and Egypt, and permanent Israeli borders with Palestine. The borders of Israel and Palestine should be based on the 1967 lines with mutually agreed swaps -- (applause) -- so that secure and recognized borders are established for both states. The Palestinian people must have the right to govern themselves, and reach their potential, in a sovereign and contiguous state.

13 US Policy Towards the Middle East: The Obama Speech and Fact Sheets 3/6/11 13 As for security, every state has the right to self-defense, and Israel must be able to defend itself - by itself - against any threat. (Applause.) Provisions must also be robust enough to prevent a resurgence of terrorism, to stop the infiltration of weapons, and to provide effective border security. (Applause.) And a full and phased withdrawal of Israeli military forces should be coordinated with the assumption of Palestinian security responsibility in a sovereign and non-militarized state. (Applause.) And the duration of this transition period must be agreed, and the effectiveness of security arrangements must be demonstrated. (Applause.) Now, that is what I said. And it was my reference to the 1967 lines -- with mutually agreed swaps -- that received the lion s share of the attention, including just now. And since my position has been misrepresented several times, let me reaffirm what 1967 lines with mutually agreed swaps means. By definition, it means that the parties themselves - Israelis and Palestinians - will negotiate a border that is different than the one that existed on June 4, (Applause.) That s what mutually agreed-upon swaps means. It is a well-known formula to all who have worked on this issue for a generation. It allows the parties themselves to account for the changes that have taken place over the last 44 years. (Applause.) It allows the parties themselves to take account of those changes, including the new demographic realities on the ground, and the needs of both sides. The ultimate goal is two states for two people: Israel as a Jewish state and the homeland for the Jewish people -- (applause) -- and the State of Palestine as the homeland for the Palestinian people -- each state in joined selfdetermination, mutual recognition, and peace. (Applause.) If there is a controversy, then, it s not based in substance. What I did on Thursday was to say publicly what has long been acknowledged privately. I ve done so because we can t afford to wait another decade, or another two decades, or another three decades to achieve peace. (Applause.) The world is moving too fast. The world is moving too fast. The extraordinary challenges facing Israel will only grow. Delay will undermine Israel s security and the peace that the Israeli people deserve. Now, I know that some of you will disagree with this assessment. I respect that. And as fellow Americans and friends of Israel, I know we can have this discussion. Ultimately, it is the right and the responsibility of the Israeli government to make the hard choices that are necessary to protect a Jewish and democratic state for which so many generations have sacrificed. (Applause.) And as a friend of Israel, I m committed to doing our part to see that this goal is realized. And I will call not just on Israel, but on the Palestinians, on the Arab States, and the international community to join us in this effort, because the burden of making hard choices must not be Israel s alone. (Applause.) But even as we do all that s necessary to ensure Israel s security, even as we are clear-eyed about the difficult challenges before us, and even as we pledge to stand by Israel through whatever tough days lie ahead, I hope we do not give up on that vision of peace. For if history teaches us anything, if the story of Israel teaches us anything, it is that with courage and resolve, progress is possible. Peace is possible. The Talmud teaches us that, So long as a person still has life, they should never abandon faith. And that lesson seems especially fitting today. For so long as there are those across the Middle East and beyond who are standing up for the legitimate rights and freedoms which have been denied by their governments, the United States will never abandon our support for those rights that are universal. And so long as there are those who long for a better future, we will never abandon our pursuit of a just and lasting peace that ends this conflict with two states living side by side in peace and security. This is not idealism; it is not naïveté. It is a hard-headed recognition that a genuine peace is the only path that will ultimately provide for a peaceful Palestine as the homeland of the Palestinian people and a Jewish state of Israel as the homeland of the Jewish people. (Applause.) That is my goal, and I look forward to continuing to work with AIPAC to achieve that goal.