US House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries wants ‘dramatic change’ in Middle East

US House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries called for “dramatic change” in the Middle East and reaffirmed his support for a two-state solution. His comments matter as Democrats prepare to take control of both houses of Congress, bringing renewed attention to how US support for Israel may evolve.

Jeffries said the current situation was unacceptable and called for Israel to live safely as a Jewish and democratic state alongside an independent Palestinian state offering Palestinians dignity and self-determination. He spoke at a weekly press conference on Thursday and was expected to become House speaker when Democrats assumed control on 3 January, following their sweeping midterm victories.