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Source: http://www.suntimes.com/output/otherviews/cst-edt-ref03.html
Israel About to Take a Great Risk in the Name of Peace
(Chicago Sun-Times) Moshe Ram - Beginning in August, Israel will seek to create a new environment for pursuing a meaningful resolution of the conflict with our Palestinian neighbors. This plan entails the very painful process of uprooting Jewish communities in Gaza and northern Samaria that have existed for decades. Nevertheless, the Disengagement Plan, combined with the continued construction of the security fence, are essential to consolidate the Jewish population behind secure borders, leaving areas where there is an overwhelming Palestinian majority. After more than four years of Palestinian violence and terrorism resulting in the deaths of more than 1,000 Israelis and the serious injury of thousands more, the government of Israel takes the obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens extremely seriously. If the Palestinians continue to choose the path of violence, Israel will respond with appropriate but substantial force to make the Palestinians understand that violence will destroy their dreams for a better future. Despite the risks, the Israeli government and people are willing to pursue peace with all their might. The writer is Consul General of Israel to the Midwest.