On the Hill, A Welcome Change in Tone

Earlier this week, I went to Washington with a small IPF delegation on a series of visits with key members of Congress and the administration.

Not that we needed any reminding, but the contrast with the previous eight years is staggering - in style, content, substance, approach - and everybody is acutely aware of it.

There is thoughtful and nuanced debate about Israel, the two -state solution, and a comprehensive peace in the region. Active diplomacy is encouraged, as evidenced by Senator Kerry's trip to Damascus, Israel and Gaza, and with George Mitchell and Hillary Clinton arriving in the region today.

From a top White House staffer, we heard that the initiatives are "not process-oriented but goal-oriented," coupled with a clear sense that peace with Syria and Lebanon are also critical pieces in the Israeli Palestinian puzzle, all with "eyes wide-open."

We are - and were - greatly encouraged to continue to support this administration's objective of a secure Israel living side-by-side with an independent Palestinian state. Economic development has a major role to play also, and the proposed $900 million package for Gaza - which we support - is an important first step.