At the State Department, Middle East envoy George Mitchell returned from his first trip abroad to announce a follow-up visit later this month.

Middle East envoy George Mitchell: “The situation is obviously complex and difficult, and there are no easy or risk-free courses of action. But I’m convinced, after a week there, that my original assessment, that with patient, determined and persevering diplomacy, we can help to make a difference and that we can assist those in the region achieve the peace and stability that people on all sides long for.”

Mitchell appeared with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who called for “an independent and viable” Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza. Ten years ago, the Clinton administration was forced to distance itself from Clinton when she made similar remarks as First Lady.