Whereas the special relationship between the United States and Israel is rooted in shared national security interests and the shared values of democracy and the rule of law; Whereas the United States remains unwavering in its commitment to help Israel address the myriad challenges our ally faces, including anti-Semitic and anti-Israel terrorism, incitement of violence, delegitimization efforts, regional instability, civil conflict in neighboring states, and the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran; Whereas the United States steadfastly opposes boycotts, divestment campaigns and sanctions targeting the State of Israel; Whereas the United States recently signed a new Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Israel regarding security assistance, consistent with long-standing support for Israel among successive Administrations and Congresses and representing an important United States commitment toward Israel’s qualitative military edge; Whereas the United States has long supported a negotiated settlement leading to a sustainable two-state solution that re-affirms Israel’s right to exist as a democratic, Jewish state and establishes a demilitarized democratic Palestinian state living side-by-side in peace and security; Whereas the failure to achieve a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict poses a threat to Israel’s ability to maintain its identity as a Jewish and democratic state; Whereas achievement of a two-state solution could pave the way for the normalization of relations between Israel and Arab states in the region; Whereas it is long-standing policy of the United States that a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will only come through direct, bilateral negotiations between the two parties; Whereas it is longstanding practice of the United States to oppose and, if necessary, veto United Nations Security Council resolutions or other international efforts that seek to impose a solution to the conflict