Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Israeli Peace Process: A Dialogue on Women's Rights and Diplomatic Relations

Strategic Insights -

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton participated in a CNN "The Situation Room" interview with Jill Dougherty on Friday, March 12, 2010, discussing the Israeli peace process, the two-state solution, and women's rights. Clinton emphasized the durability of the US-Israel relationship, citing their shared values, but expressed deep regret over Israel's decision to build new housing in a disputed part of Jerusalem. She also touched on the significance of women's rights as a national security threat to the US and the world, emphasizing the connection between democracy, peace, and the empowerment of women.

Key Takeaways:

  • Secretary Clinton stated that the US-Israel relationship is "durable" and "strong" but acknowledged that the recent decision to build new housing in Jerusalem was "insulting" and "unfortunate."
  • Clinton emphasized the importance of the two-state solution and the need for confidence-building measures on both sides, citing the prime minister's stated support for the solution.
  • The secretary of state highlighted the existence of individuals on both sides who oppose the two-state solution and the peaceful path, as well as the influence of outside actors who agitate against the process.
  • Clinton connectivity between women's rights and national security, arguing that the denial of women's rights often leads to cultures prone to extremism and challenges American values and interests.
  • The secretary of state discussed the challenges facing the US military surge in Afghanistan, citing low morale, overcrowding, and exhaustion among embassy staff.
  • Clinton emphasized the need for more personnel and resources to sustain the civilian surge, highlighting the intense and demanding nature of the work.

Statistics:

  • The US military surge in Afghanistan has resulted in low morale, overcrowding, and exhaustion among embassy staff.
  • The Afghan conflict is one of many areas where women's rights are being denied, alongside countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, and Yemen.
  • The national security threat posed by the denial of women's rights affects not only the US but also the world, with Clinton citing the connection between democracy and peace.

Sources:

  • CNN "The Situation Room" interview with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, interviewed by Jill Dougherty, Friday, March 12, 2010.