In his statement, the President noted that achieving peace "will not be easy.  But we are here today because it is the right thing to do... I'm committed to pressing ahead in the weeks and months and years to come, because it is absolutely critical that we get this issue resolved.  It's not just critical for the Israelis and the Palestinians, it's critical for the world, it is in the interests of the United States.  And we are going to work as hard as necessary to accomplish our goals."

Commenting on today's developments, APN President and CEO Debra DeLee said, "The President made clear today that he is in this until an agreement is achieved. He also made clear that he views this effort as a US national security interest. For this, American supporters of peace - just like many in the region - are thankful. Looking ahead, we urge the President to remain resolute and to not give up, regardless of the obstacles. Likewise, we urge leaders in the region to embrace this moment of clarity and opportunity, foreswearing the game-playing, posturing, and petty politics of the past."

APN has applauded President Obama's commitment to Middle East peace since his election, and has urged him since the outset of his presidency to make the achievement of peace a top priority of his administration. APN activists across the nation are working with their elected officials to give the President the backing he needs as he moves forward with this vital task.

In addition, APN's president and CEO Debra DeLee today joined a group of American Jewish, Christian and Muslim community leaders in signing an open letter supporting President Obama's Middle East policy.

Read President Obama's full statement from today here.

Read the interfaith pro-peace letter here.