|
Trending Topics
|
A Cultural Gulf Between Israel and Palestine
(Commentary) Jonathan S. Tobin - The gathering at the PA government compound in Ramallah was festive as people welcomed the convicted terrorist murderers who were set free by Israel this week as part of the deal that got the Palestinians to agree to peace talks. PA leader Mahmoud Abbas proudly held their hands aloft in a victory gesture. By contrast, the mood in Israel was somber as the relatives of the people who had been killed mourned anew. This "emotional gulf" is indicative of a vast cultural divide between these two peoples that explains the absence of peace. The Palestinian president did his utmost to identify his political fortunes with people who had stabbed, shot, and blown up Jews in cold blood. As long as the Palestinians honor murderers, there is no reason to believe they are willing to end the conflict.