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Solving Major Issues on Palestinian Agenda Requires Working With Israel, Not Against It

(Pipe Dream-SUNY Binghamton) Carla Sinclair - Born in Jordan-occupied Jerusalem, Bassem Eid founded the Palestinian Human Rights Monitoring Group and travels across the world advocating for a more accountable form of Palestinian government, increased transparency and a reconciliation with Israel. Speaking in October at Binghamton University, Eid said the recent violence was a reflection of economic stress and civil unrest that has been caused, at least in part, by the Palestinian Authority's "disengagement" from Israel. "If you would come to any ordinary Palestinian, and ask him what are the three priorities he is seeking, he would say a job, to secure the education system and health system for my children. Nobody's talking about settlements, war - no one's even mentioning the foundation of the Palestinian state." According to Eid, many Palestinians prefer to work in Israel, with more than 92,000 Palestinians crossing the border each day because monthly salaries in Israel are $1,500 to $2,000, much higher than the average $400 in the PA. He also warned against the boycott, divestment and sanction (BDS) campaign to cut ties with Israel financially. "I think BDS is a prelude of genocide to the Palestinians. I want to see a BDS [proponent] go to a refugee camp and call to boycott Israel. Trust me, they'll get thrown [out]." According to Eid, solving current issues requires a more receptive Palestinian government, which would mean working with Israel and not against it.
2016-01-08 00:00:00
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