As Commander in Chief, you have a tremendous opportunity to alleviate the painful situation millions of Israelis and Palestinians find themselves in.

As pro-Israel, pro-peace, pro-democracy Americans, we urge you to take five important steps in the next 70 days:

1. Rally strong, enduring international pressure for a deal that frees Israeli hostages and ends the war in Gaza;
2. End Israel’s restrictions on aid to civilians in Gaza, especially the near total obstruction of aid to north Gaza, so that US law is upheld;
3. Impose sanctions against extremist Israeli leaders and entities for supporting settler violence;
4. Sponsor a balanced UN Security Council resolution outlining a path toward peace and drawing a red line against annexation;
5. Give a major address reflecting on your decades of experience, outlining the choice ahead for Israelis, Palestinians and the region between perpetual war and comprehensive regional peace and security.

As you prepare to leave office, we urge you to make clear that, in your administration’s view, the Israeli government’s actions have violated both US laws and international human rights standards in ways that – under existing laws – demand the withholding of certain offensive weapons until Israel begins to comply with its legal obligations. This is the same standard all recipients of US assistance should be held to, nothing more, nothing less.

Your speech and the UN resolution would allow you to articulate a clear vision for the future: To set expectations for post-war governance in Gaza, support an end to the occupation, and outline a path toward a regional peace agreement that delivers safety, freedom and recognition to Israelis and Palestinians alike.

There’s a long history of outgoing presidents leaving behind a legacy and a roadmap as they depart the White House. There is real value to setting baselines and precedents that will endure far beyond any one administration. The time to act is now.

Thank you for your consideration,

Sincerely, the undersigned