Secretary Kerry Announces Resumption Of Israeli-Palestinian Peace Talks
By Hayes Brown
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Kerry has made restarting negotiations between the two a centerpiece of his time at Foggy Bottom, having made six trips to the Middle East in just the few months hes been in office. Speaking before the Senate in April, Kerry warned that if a two-state solution is not reached within the next two years, its over. While many commentators disparaged his focus on Israel-Palestine, those efforts and since of urgency have paid off in recent weeks, as seen in todays announcement and the League of Arab States deciding to back Kerrys proposals earlier this week.
UPDATE
CAP expert Matt Duss issued a statement on the resumption of talks, saying Secretary Kerrys efforts demonstrate the best traditions of American diplomacy and show the continued importance of American leadership in the region and the world:
As stated by multiple U.S. presidents and military leaders, finding a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is in the national security interests of the United States. The American people are understandably wary of the costs of continued engagement in the Middle East. The transitions now occurring in the region will continue to challenge policymakers in ways we cant anticipate. While pessimism over the prospects for a two-state agreement is in fashion in Washington, Secretary Kerrys diligent efforts over the past months have borne fruit and should be supported by those with an interest in a strong and secure United States, Israel, and Palestine.
http://thinkprogress.org/security/2013/07/19/2330311/secretary-kerry-announces-resumption-of-israeli-palestinian-peace-talks/