Submitted by jay(United States), Jan 6, 2006 at 22:43
Make no mistake about it. Ariel Sharon's grave illness is tragic. Israel had a leader that defeated Israels ridiculous political system. Setting aside the conflict with the Palestinians for a minute, Israels political higher ups are like a free for all at a temples mens club all vying for the top job. And should Sharon pass, beginning with Kadima, and throughout all parties, you can probably expect the same.
There are many things that the Palestinians dont do well. But Israel's dark spot is their lack of concensus,sustained concensus,or timely concensus. Trying to get Palestinians to behave and Israelis to agree at the same time, is the great eclipse that cant seem to line up. Sharon to his credit had an understanding of the solar system. And no, he didnt see stars. Sharon left Gaza in part because it didnt work for Israel. He also left Gaza because he was looking for a recognition by the movers and shakers of the world that begining a withdrawel from Gaza should be coupled with a statement that Israel will not be expected to return to the 67 borders, and the Palestinians who wish to return will be resettled only in the future Palestine.
He received those words from a courageous American President who is now,as upset as anyone. Sharon appreciated Bush's fairness and friendship. He didnt appreciate the behavior of the many, both in and out of Israel, that are currenty speaking of Sharon as a peacemaker and leader-- after spending their entire lives trying to give him a stroke.
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