President Obama talked to NPR’s Michele Norris and Steve Inskeep yesterday at the White House. The interview focused heavily on American relations in the Middle East and Muslim world. Obama faced questions regarding the United States’ relationship with Israel, and if he felt it would be necessary to stop supporting Israel as much in order to better the U.S.’s image with other territories in the reigon. Obama declined to agree with the NPR hosts, instead saying it is not necessary to stop supporting the State of Israel, but it is necessary to be honest with them regarding the situation and the negative direction things are moving in Israel and Palestine. Obama insisted on a two state solution, a freeze on settlements, and an increase in security efforts from the Palestinians.
“No, I don’t think that we have to change strong U.S. support for Israel. I think that we do have to retain a constant belief in the possibilities of negotiations that will lead to peace. And that’s going to require, from my view, a two-state solution that is going to require that each side — the Israelis and Palestinians — meet their obligations. I’ve said very clearly to the Israelis both privately and publicly that a freeze on settlements, including natural growth, is part of those obligations.”
You can read and listen to the full interview here.