Obama, Israel, and Settlements

The following two articles highlight the Presidents new objective to freeze Israeli settlement growth. Obama has stated that freezing settlements is one of his top priorities and necessary if there is to be a peace agreement. He also appears ready to pressure Israel to accomplish his objectives. This is a significant change from Bush 43, who acquiesced to virtually all Israeli demands and tacitly supported "natural growth" in settlements. A battle between Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Obama appears to be brewing, as Netanyahu and his government has adamantly opposed a full settlement freeze.

Obama Talks of Being 'Honest' With Israel
By: Helene Cooper

Published: June 1, 2009
New York Times

WASHINGTON — President Obama indicated on Monday that he would be more willing to criticize Israel than previous administrations have been, and he reiterated his call for a freeze of Israeli settlements.

“Part of being a good friend is being honest,” Mr. Obama said in an interview with NPR News. “And I think there have been times where we are not as honest as we should be about the fact that the current direction, the current trajectory, in the region is profoundly negative, not only for Israeli interests but also U.S. interests.

“We do have to retain a constant belief in the possibilities of negotiations that will lead to peace,” he added. “I’ve said that a freeze on settlements is part of that.”

To see the rest of the article: New York Times

Israeli Minister's Visit Aims to Calm Settlements Dispute
By: Glenn Kessler
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Washington Post

Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak began a round of meetings with top U.S. officials yesterday in a bid to head off an increasingly sharp dispute between the United States and Israel over the expansion of Jewish settlements in Palestinian territory.

To see the rest of the article: Washington Post