Israel is an important ally, with whom we share common security interests and common values. I am committed to Israel’s security and legitimacy, and to cooperating closely on common threats we face from Iran and from terrorist groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and ISIS. But we cannot emphasize our deep bonds to Israel while ignoring the basic humanity of Palestinians. We must also commit to ensure the well-being, rights, and freedom of the Palestinian people.

The way we respect all parties is through a two-state solution — an outcome that’s good for U.S. interests, good for Israel’s security and its future, and good for Palestinian dignity and self-determination. To achieve this, there must be an end to the Israeli occupation and the creation of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip living alongside Israel.

Unfortunately, President Trump’s reckless policies, the policies of the Netanyahu government, and extremist groups such as Hamas have all made a two-state solution harder to achieve. But even at a moment when serious negotiations may not be possible, it is important to take immediate steps to reestablish America’s role as a credible mediator.

We can start by welcoming the Palestinian General Delegation back to Washington and reopening an American mission to the Palestinians in Jerusalem. I would also make clear that in a two-state agreement both parties should have the option to locate their capitals in Jerusalem, as all previous serious plans have acknowledged. We should immediately resume aid to the Palestinians and financial support to UNRWA, and focus real financial and political resources on fixing the man-made humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip.

I will oppose incitement to violence and support for terrorism by Palestinian extremists like Hamas. And I will make clear my unequivocal opposition to Israeli settlement activity and to any moves in the direction of annexation of the West Bank.

Good friends can disagree, and a candid expression of concern does not diminish our friendship. We can speak out against the far right wing policies of the Netanyahu government while supporting Israel, just as we speak out against President Trump while supporting the United States.

But we are facing a difficult moment in our history. We see a rising tide of anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, white nationalism, and other forms of hatred and bigotry across our nation and around the world. I want to be clear: this has no place in a democracy. Whether in Pittsburgh, Poway, Paris, or Jerusalem, an attack on Jewish sisters and brothers is an attack on all of us, and we must confront this evil together. We do that by promoting pluralism and democracy at home and abroad, and by fighting against anti-Semitism, Islomaphobia, and extremism wherever they arise.

We will not be silent — our resolve, our humanity, and our compassion are stronger than their hatred. That’s the kind of country we want to build, and the kind of world we will leave for our children. I’m glad to be in this fight with you.