Preferring Israel
Reader comment on item: Palestinians Who Prefer Israel

Submitted by Sofa Sogood (United States), Jan 1, 2008 at 20:20

Dear Dr. Pipes,

Yes, this is positive. It certainly would be helpful and good if this information were widely publicized.

Could you clarify what proportion of the Palestinian population is represented by this four-fifths? Does it include some Palestinians in other cities in the West Bank, or in Jerusalem only? Does this figure include Arab-Israelis?

Is there any point in attempting to analyze the contradictory rationale of those like Nabil Gheit with his "Saddam as martyr" poster, who want to become or remain Israeli, while at the same time are supportive of those who wish to destroy Israel?

Thank you again for your courage, all your efforts, and the incredible contribution you have made to education and analysis of Middle East issues.

With Gratitude and Best Wishes for the New Year,

Sofa Sogood

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Daniel Pipes replies:

"Could you clarify what proportion of the Palestinian population is represented by this four-fifths? Does it include some Palestinians in other cities in the West Bank, or in Jerusalem only? Does this figure include Arab-Israelis?"

I believe the sample is limited to Arab residents of Israel.

"Is there any point in attempting to analyze the contradictory rationale of those like Nabil Gheit with his 'Saddam as martyr' poster, who want to become or remain Israeli, while at the same time are supportive of those who wish to destroy Israel?"

Personal circumstances are one thing, political aims another. Presumably someon like Gheit would want to turn Israel into a Palestinian state.