1967 borders in exchange for peace is a recurring Saudi theme, and not bad
Reader comment on item: Happy Birthday, Abdullah Plan

Submitted by Charles Martel (United States), Feb 26, 2008 at 13:22

The Saudis made a similar proposal in the early-mid '80s and I think we should cultivate it as a basis for negotiations -- both because it will be bitterly divisive in the Arab world and it is part of the best deal Israel could ever, plausibly, get.

The fact is the Saudis despise the Palestinians as (usually) socialist-tainted nationalists (or, more recently and alternatively) unacceptably radical fundamentalists (Hamas). Both the '80s and current versions of this plan sell the Palestinians down the river on right of return, etc.

I'm not crazy about Israel giving up the West Bank, but I don't know what choice they have. Demographics is destiny and Israel is losing that race to its internal Palestinians -- much more if Israel keeps trying to control the West Bank.

I've said elsewhere that I doubt Israel can get Egypt to take Gaza back, but it is worth a try, and the Abdullah plan is surprisingly generous toward Israel for one of the most evil governments in the world.

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