Negotations
Reader comment on item: Why Hamas['s Electoral Victory] Leaves Me Neutral

Submitted by Jay (United States), Feb 2, 2006 at 02:23

William Safire once wrote that Israel at this point no longer needed more help in negotiations.They dont need an interlocker.They dont need anymore good offices.What Israel needs is a friend. And he was right. Most of Israels higher ups know what borders and definition of Jerusalem should be in the cards.

Israel should stop wasting their time trying to convince Palestinian partners and attending ceremonies.Israels negotiating partners on the final status of everything is the United States first and foremost,and yes, also the quad group.Its a stretch I admit. But so was May 1948.Those are the ones who need to wink and nod on paper,and say it publically.

With paper and fence in hand,the Palestinians can be reminded that they fully participated at Taba,and be offered the following.When you recognize these fair secure borders,fair Jerusalem comprimise,a few understandable conditions and right of return to new Palestine only,you will have a state. You recognize fairness, you get.

As for Hamas? Its like as for Iran. A foe more than clever. Democracy is swell. But its definition and greatness is a bit more complex than having a free and open debate as to whether the Holocaust happened or not.

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