(Algemeiner) David Harris - The conflict between Israel and the Palestinians is, at its heart, about two competing national movements, and the only logical way to resolve it is by a negotiated settlement. The UN recommended a two-state settlement as early as 1947. It was accepted by the Jews, rejected by the Arabs. From 1948 to 1967, the West Bank, eastern Jerusalem, and Gaza were all in Arab hands. A Palestinian state could have been created at any time. It wasn't. Israel, joined by President Bill Clinton, offered a viable two-state accord to the Palestinians during 2000-2001. Clinton describes in his autobiography how they refused. Hamas' ire for Israel is permanent. It's been firing thousands of missiles over the years, building cross-border terror tunnels, kidnapping Israelis, and foregoing development in Gaza to focus on damaging Israel. Millions of Israelis are rushing to bomb shelters, caring for the elderly and disabled, and comforting traumatized children, as rockets fly overhead today and could strike anywhere, even with the Iron Dome anti-missile system in place. One day, peace will be realized with the Palestinians. The fact that six Arab countries now have normalized ties with Israel is a powerful reminder that peace is attainable. But it won't happen as long as Hamas rules Gaza, clings to its genocidal goals, and snookers well-meaning people abroad into believing it's the victim in a conflict of its own making. The writer is CEO of the American Jewish Committee (AJC).
2021-05-18 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive