Real Ultimatum
Reader comment on item: Reading Sharon's Mind

Submitted by Chana Givon (United States), Dec 23, 2003 at 14:55

Dear Dr. Pipes,
As a recent immigrant to Israel but one who has been involved and concerned with her security and welfare for years I was deeply disturbed by Prime Minister Sharon's speech. I am acutely aware of the reactions of people here; everyone seems unhappy about the plans that were presented; one does not know from one day to another what new suggestions will be made and this psychological insecurity is added to the fear of suicide bombings. People here know that concessions have only brought more terrorism.

Unfortunately, most people in the West do not understand the Arab mindset: the "marketplace mentality", the bargaining that seems to always be in evidence in presentday negotiations. Every concession on the part of Israel seems to be a new starting point for additional demands by the Palestinians. What has been called a peace "process" is nothing more than Israeli capitulation to Arab demands; the word "process" implies give and take. In actuality, Israel is giving and the Arabs want to take more. It has solved nothing.

Enough! It is time to tell the Palestinians that they have 2 months to stop their terrorism and join those who respect human rights. They have educated the next generation of suicide bombers; that spells death for them and for Israelis. They must be told by Israel and the US government that if they do not change within the allotted time they will have NO STATE. There is no other alternative.
Dr. Pipes, I have heard you speak in Los Angeles and have supported you consistent- ly because I believe that you have insight that is so needed today. Although I am an officer of StandWithUs my remarks here are made as an individual and do not reflect the organization at all. For that reason I ask that my comments remain between us at this time. Thank you for all that you do.
Sincerely,
Chana Givon, Jerusalem, Israel / Dec. 23, 2003

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