Officials said President Obama and his leading aides have been discussing how the
Republican win in Congress on Nov. 2 would affect the president's plans to
establish a Palestinian state over the next 18 months. They acknowledged
that the Republican-led House of Representatives, which would begin its new
term in January 2011, could oppose or even disrupt the administration's
effort.
"Well, we've talked a lot over the last couple of days about the new
Congress and its possible effects on foreign policy and the conduct of
foreign policy," Toner said.
As the ranking Republican on the committee, Ms. Ros-Lehtinen has
supported Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's efforts to renew
Jewish construction in the West Bank and most of Jerusalem. The House member
has also questioned the PA's commitment to peace with Israel.
Netanyahu was scheduled to arrive in Washington on Nov. 7. Officials
said the Israeli leader would meet Vice President Joseph Biden rather than
Obama, who has been touring Asia.
Officials, however, don't expect a showdown between Congress and the
administration over Obama's plans to establish a Palestinian state. They
pointed out that the Senate has retained its Democratic majority and that
the new Congress would be busy with domestic issues.
"It's going to remain a priority for this administration, and obviously
we're going to work hand in glove with Congress to advance direct
negotiations and to ultimately reach a settlement," Toner said.
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