A two-state solution - an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip existing peacefully alongside Israel - is an imperative. It is the only way to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and ensure Israel's security and future as a Jewish and democratic state. It is also in the interests of the United States, Israel, the Palestinians and the international community.
Nonetheless, the possibility of achieving a negotiated two-state solution is disappearing. More and more people in the region are talking seriously about other options, particularly the one-state solution. The resulting bi-national state would end Israel's Jewish and democratic character, and destroy the primary rationale for Israel's existence: to serve as a national home for the Jewish people.
Therefore, the United States must work diligently with the Israelis and Palestinians to preserve and then implement the two-state option. In short, there is no alternative to it except a state of permanent war and/or the loss of Israel's Jewish identity.