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The Obstacle of Land Swaps

(Israel Hayom) Zalman Shoval - As negotiations between Palestinian and Israeli representatives began this week, the idea of "land swaps" is sometimes seen as a key to resolving the problem of borders. However, it's doubtful whether the proposal can be justified either morally or in principle. It would mark the first time in history that the aggressor would be compensated for a loss of territory by receiving land from the victim of its aggression. People have forgotten how the war in 1967 transpired, who attacked whom, and why Israel, in a defensive war, captured territories from its aggressors. Those who worded UN Resolution 242 were well aware of the facts, which is why they opposed an Israeli retreat to the '67 lines. Even from a practical standpoint, it seems as if "land swaps" are an impossible solution. Little Israel does not have the practical means to donate land to the Palestinians without damaging the fabric of life for more than 20 communities within its borders.
2013-08-16 00:00:00
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