John Nichols: Clinton Temperature on Gaza: Relatively Moderate

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http://www.thenation.com/blogs/state_of_change/396532/clinton_temperature_on_gaza_relatively_moderate?rel=hp_picks

Clinton Temperature on Gaza: Relatively Moderate
posted by John Nichols on 01/13/2009 @ 12:58pm


This writer has no illusions about US Senator Hillary Clinton, or President Barack Obama, when it comes to the Middle East peace process.

Both the president-elect and his nominee to serve as secretary of state have track records of disappointing rather than leading when it comes to employing the diplomatic and economic muscle of the United States to forge a two-state solution to the enduring conflict between Israel and Palestine.

But, with that said, the moderate character of Clinton's comments to members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee at a generally friendly confirmation hearing was modestly refreshing.

"As we focus on Iraq, Pakistan and Afghanistan, we must also actively pursue a strategy of smart power in the Middle East that addresses the security needs of Israel and the legitimate political and economic aspirations of the Palestinians," Clinton explained in her opening statement to the committee that seems all but certain to call for her confirmation by the full Senate.

Clinton referred specifically to Israel's assault on the Gaza Strip, which has left hundreds of civilians dead.

The senator said that she and Obama "understand and are deeply sympathetic to Israel's desire to defend itself under the current conditions and to be free of shelling by Hamas rockets." But, she added,"The tragic humanitarian costs (for the people of Gaza) must only increase our determination to seek a just and lasting peace agreement that brings real security to Israel; normal and positive relations with its neighbors; and independence, economic progress and security to the Palestinians in their own state."

No, she is not channeling Dennis Kucinich, Americans for Peace Now or J Street.

But by talking about the need to seek "independence, economic progress and security to the Palestinians in their own state," Clinton set a reasonable tone that at this point comes as something -- just something -- of a welcome relief.