Of the many difficult problems facing any President, Middle East peace is one that has so far eluded them for over 60 years.  In most cases a given administration would make a half hearted attempt at negotiations in latter half of their last term.  This administration has been different however.

Shortly after President Obama's inauguration he jumped into the fray with a speech in Cairo where he said of the conflict, "The only resolution is for the aspirations of both sides to be met through two states, where Israelis and Palestinians each live in peace and security."  There have been ups and downs since then, with peace talks elusive because of tensions between the United States and Israel over the continuing building of new settlements in disputed territory, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mamoud Abbas have agreed to begin talks anew.

Continuing in his role as a Mideast peace sponsor, President Obama appeared before the UN general assembly today to make his second speech to the body.  He touched on many issues, running the gambit from the terror attacks of 9/11, to the global financial crisis, to nuclear non-proliferation, and the promotion of democracy as the best future for humanity.  However, he spent a good deal of time discussing a two state solution for the Middle East as the best chance for peace.

Perhaps what was most interesting was his gentle chiding of UN members for drafting endless resolutions spamming the same old disagreements instead of becomoing involved in the peace process.  He said it wasn't enough anymore to merely be friends to the Palestinians or the Israelis, that for the conflict and suffering to truly end, deeds were necessary to back up their words.

Time will tell if the world responds to the President's challenge.

Watch the President's address below: