Continued construction of illegal settlements in Jerusalem and the West Bank, particularly in the area know as E-1, will by all accounts, derail negotiations for peace and the creation of a two-state solution. The two-state solution has been long advocated by the United States, the international community, and many Israelis as the only viable way of achieving a just and lasting peace in the region.
IF the United States is to continue to support Israel financially and militarily, it is essential that government of Benjamin Netanyahu make every effort pursue peace rather than focus on unjust, counterproductive settlement activities.
Withholding aid is the only way to get Mr. Netanyahu's attention and communicate just how serious the United States is about this matter.