(Ynet News) Guy Bechor - Overtures from the Arab and Muslim world towards Israel stem from the recognition that Israel is a strong economic and diplomatic player in the Middle East, and do not represent any legal or diplomatic recognition. They are establishing relations with "Tel Aviv" as a general, non-binding term, rather than eternal, symbolic "Jerusalem." A working relationship is the most Israel can expect today from the Arab world, especially after five years of intifada have so poisoned the regional atmosphere. Public opinion of Israel on the Arab street is worse than it has ever been. Perhaps the time has come to learn the lessons of the failed 1990s. Here in the Middle East, we must be modest, we must act without signing ceremonies or loud proclamations. If Israel says, "there is a solution to the conflict," opposing forces will do everything they can to destroy that vision. On the other hand, if Israel says, "there is no solution," these forces will breathe easy and agree to local and temporary arrangements. In the meanwhile, everyone in the region would be able to live in peace.
2005-11-18 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive