David Roet, deputy consulate General of Israel, spent his first trip to Michigan at the Annual Conference on Israel at MSU's Hillel Jewish Student Center on Friday.
"I'm pretty accustomed to the snow and cold weather," he said laughing.
During his visit, Roet addressed Israeli issues and concerns with students at Central Michigan University, Gov. Jennifer Granholm and Jewish groups in the Lansing area.
"I see a lot of action and activity on campus and in other places regarding the Palestinian and Israeli conflict," he said. "Sometimes we reach opinions without going into the history of a nation."
Roet said such large student involvement with Israel is a refreshing sight.
"It's good to see that students have support for Israel," he said. "I'd like to thank them for being active with Israel."
Despite criticisms of Israel, Roet said the country is avidly seeking peace.
"There is a real want for peace," he said. "Israel is not perfect, and we have made mistakes along the way, but we are making a real effort to fight terrorism and not hurt civilians."
The conflict in Israel could prove to be a pressing issue for Israeli students studying in the United States, Roet said.
"Although you live in the United States, your life and memory live in Israel," he said. "We have suffered a tremendous wave of terror and most students know people who have been affected by terror attacks."
The exhaustive registration process imposed by the Immigration and Naturalization Services has many people concerned and angry, he said but added he understands the need for such security precautions.
"Israel has been a victim of terror for a long time," Roet said. "The question is how do you keep democracy while maintaining security.
"As a diplomat, I submit myself to things like airport checks, but I'm comfortable because I understand the reason for it," he said.
Amid the looming war in Iraq, Roet said Israel supports the United States but seeks a peaceful resolution first.
"It's important to note that Israel is not a yes-or-no player in the conflict, but we want a solution without war," he said.
