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The Palestinians Should Move Fast toward Negotiations. Time Is Not on Their Side
(Wall Street Journal) Walter Russell Mead - Palestinian options are narrowing as they search for allies. Two of the most important Arab states - Syria and Iraq - are so torn by internal strife that they can no longer project power beyond their borders. With the U.S. looking to reduce its regional commitments, this has made Israel a vital strategic ally for the Sunni Arab world. Despite continuing sympathy for the Palestinians, Arab governments cannot escape the reality that for now, the existence of a strong Israel is a pillar of their own independence. Russia's ties to Israel are deep. The Palestinians have nothing to offer Russia to offset what it gains economically, politically and technologically from its ties to Israel. Europe is divided and preoccupied with crises closer to home. The Palestinians have always believed that time was on their side. That confidence was misplaced. As Israel has grown into a tech giant and a regional superpower, the Palestinian bargaining position continues to erode. If the PA doesn't move fast toward negotiations for a final peace, time will continue to work in Israel's favor, and Palestinian options will only narrow. The writer is professor of foreign affairs and the humanities at Bard College.