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Source: http://www.thejc.com/news/israel-news/37279/comment-peace-talks-dont-get-your-hopes
Prospects for Peace Talks
(Jewish Chronicle-UK) Gerald M. Steinberg - The catastrophic outcome of the Oslo process has increased Israeli concerns over security, and the demonization campaign against Israel has led many Israelis to give up on international acceptance, with or without peace. In parallel, Palestinians are deeply divided, with Hamas in control of Gaza, and the remnants of the PLO/Fatah group clinging to power in the West Bank. Nevertheless, there is a slim basis for considering a positive outcome. Israelis are tired of the conflict and ready for a compromise that meets basic requirements. Polls consistently show that the majority want an end to the post-1967 stalemate, without inviting renewed terrorism, as occurred following the Gaza withdrawal in 2005. Internationally recognized and defensible borders (not the 1949 cease-fire lines) would have a number of positive impacts. The writer is professor of political studies at Bar-Ilan University and heads NGO Monitor.