John Kerry on Israel

Two-State Advocate (strong)

TL;DR

John Kerry strongly advocates for a viable two-state solution to ensure Israel's security and Palestinian freedom.

Key Points

He proposed six principles for a final peace agreement in December 2016, centered on a two-state solution based on 1967 lines with land swaps.
During his time as Secretary of State, he strongly opposed Israeli settlement construction, warning it imperiled the two-state solution and risked a 'separate and unequal' reality.
In 2015, he stressed the need to stop incitement and violence from all parties while meeting with the Israeli Prime Minister before their October 22 meeting.

Summary

John Kerry, particularly during his tenure as Secretary of State, maintained that the two-state solution is the sole path to a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. He emphasized that this outcome is necessary to guarantee Israel's future as both a Jewish and democratic state, while also ensuring freedom and dignity for the Palestinian people. His core evidence frequently centered on Israeli settlement expansion, which he argued was systematically eroding the possibility of separation and leading toward a perpetual occupation or a single state that could not be both democratic and Jewish.

His efforts culminated in proposing parameters for a final agreement in December 2016, which outlined principles for secure borders based on 1967 lines with swaps, mutual recognition, a solution for refugees, shared capital in Jerusalem, and security arrangements for both sides. While he consistently defended Israel's security needs and committed unprecedented military aid, he also publicly rebuked settlement policies, leading to friction with the Israeli government and a decision not to veto a critical UN Security Council resolution against settlements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is John Kerry's main stance on Israel and the Palestinians?

John Kerry's main stance, especially as Secretary of State, was a strong advocacy for the two-state solution. He believed this framework was the only way to ensure Israel's long-term security as a Jewish and democratic state while securing freedom and dignity for Palestinians. He consistently expressed concern that policies like settlement expansion were undermining this necessary outcome.

Did John Kerry support Israeli security while criticizing settlements?

Yes, John Kerry stated his commitment to Israel's security was unwavering throughout his Senate and State Department career, highlighting significant military aid provided by the administration he served. However, he also made it clear that continued settlement activity was inconsistent with U.S. policy and endangered the prospect of peace.

What were the 'John Kerry Parameters' concerning Israel?

The John Kerry Parameters were a declaration of principles he proposed on December 28, 2016, to guide a final Israeli-Palestinian peace agreement. The principles called for secure, mutually agreed-upon borders based on 1967 lines, Jerusalem as the capital of both states, and an end to the occupation.