Sharon: a losing attitude

Submitted by Gabriel Grosso (Italy), Jan 2, 2003 at 17:10

As a keen supporter of Israel, I am very disappointed to see that Sharon is adopting the wrong technique to deal with the problem. By chosing direct confrontation, Sharon is radicalizing the Palestinians. Even the most aggressive leaders know that negotiations are important. By choosing confrontation, Sharon is playing in the hands of Hamas, Islamic Jihad and similar groups. Sharon should negotiate with the most moderate sections of the Palestinian population and avoid confrontations with the entire Palestinian population. Negotiations and talk are a better option than blood and confrontation. Under Sharon's leadership, the Israelis have suffered an escalation of violence. Fighting back is not always the right answer against Palestinian violence. Sharon's leadership is failing to provide peace and security for the Israeli people and this is a sign that his strategy is wrong. Dialogue and negotiations are a better option than violent struggle. Dealing with Palestinian violence is not easy and suicide attacks are crimes against humanity. The Israelis are entitled to defend themselves. However, their enemies might take advantage of Israel's reactions to justify even more violence. Arafat and Osama Bin Laden know that very well: they can take advantage of Sharon's reactions to justify terrorism and even argue that Sharon is the real terrorist. Israel's enemies know that very well. But with politicians like Ariel Sharon, who needs enemies?

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