Clinton says US commitment to Israel’s security future is ‘rock solid’
By Matthew Lee, APMonday, March 22, 2010
Clinton: US commitment to Israel ‘rock solid’
WASHINGTON — Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is assuring Israel that the Obama administration’s commitment to the security and future of the Jewish state is “rock solid” despite a severe diplomatic spat this month.
In remarks prepared for delivery at a speech later Monday, Clinton defended recent harsh U.S. criticism of Israel over a Jewish housing project on land claimed by the Palestinians. She says America will give Israel credit when it is due but also tell the truth when needed.
Clinton’s comments to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee come after one of the worst disputes between Washington and its top Mideast ally. That dispute erupted when Israeli officials announced plans for new Jewish housing in east Jerusalem.
