HOUSE OVERSIGHT 032164 rather than blood and revenge. However thers is, in my opnion n o way to achieve but to move forward with the Palestinians A precondition to seize such an opportunity is a mighty, sober, self confident Israel, in strong alliance with the US. An Israel which can deter or defeat any combination of regional powers, yet, an Israel who is ready to contemplate and consider a modified Saudi or Arab League Plan as a basis for negotiations. The unique relationship we have developed with the US over the last 45yrs based on common values ,mutual respect and shared interests is a cornerstone of our strength, world posture and our future. It is also a crucial building block of any regional peace and cooperation strategy.Allowing IL/US relations to remain damaged, I believe is a grave mistake with potentially far reaching consequences. As the Minister of Defense of Israel I've met more than once with President Obama , as well as with President Bush before him„ reiterating with both that the though the US is clearly our best friend