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Source: https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/20773/palestinian-leaders-cannot-make-peace
Why Palestinian Leaders Cannot Make Peace with Israel
(Gatestone Institute) Bassam Tawil - Prominent Palestinian politician Mustafa Barghouti has been facing sharp criticism after he was filmed warmly hugging former Israeli Foreign Minister Shlomo Ben-Ami during a recent conference in Italy. Ben-Ami is known for his role in the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians more than two decades ago. He supports the establishment of a Palestinian state. But for Barghouti's critics, all Israeli Jews, including those who support a two-state solution, are enemies. Some Palestinians even posted a photoshopped image of Barghouti dressed in an Israeli military uniform to back up their charge that he is a traitor. Alarmed by the accusations, Barghouti was forced to apologize for daring to appear in public with an Israeli Jew. He further pledged to continue opposing normalization with Israel. The smear campaign against Barghouti serves as a reminder of how Palestinian leaders and officials have radicalized their people against Israel to a point where it has become impossible, if not dangerous, even to be seen in the company of an Israeli Jew. Barghouti has long advocated boycotting Israel. He therefore has no right to be upset about the attacks on him. One can only imagine the consequences for any Palestinian leader who dares even to discuss or consider peace with Israel. This is why Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has refused to return to the negotiating table with Israel for the past decade.