Obama: US strongly supports 2-state solution

[Scurrilous]

American president tells Turkish parliament US committed to Israel, Palestine living side by side in peace, security; Both Israelis, Palestinians must adhere to Roadmap, Annapolis understandings, Obama says

http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3698228,00.html

<snip>

"n a clear message to Israel's new rightist government and to the Palestinians, American President Barack Obama demanded that both sides adhere to their Road Map and Annapolis Conference obligations.

"In the Middle East, we share the goal of a lasting peace between Israel and its neighbors," Obama said during a special address to the Turkish parliament. "Let me be clear: the United States strongly supports the goal of two states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security."

"That is a goal shared by Palestinians, Israelis, and people of good will around the world," the president said. "That is a goal that that the parties agreed to in the Roadmap and at Annapolis. And that is a goal that I will actively pursue as president."

The comments marked Obama's first response to belligerent statements made by incoming Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman in his induction speech.

Obama, who is currently visiting Turkey for the first time as president, said he expects the road ahead to be difficult, and added that "both Israelis and Palestinians must take the steps that are necessary to build confidence." He did not, however, outline any specific steps that must be adopted at this time."

[TayTay]

1. Excellent and very clear directive.

This, coupled with the effort to reach out to Syria, Iran and other nations in the Middle East show that the Obama Administration will be trying new strategies and open to diplomatic appeals that have been closed for many years.

Kudos to the President on this. It is most welcome news.