Generosity should be mutual.

Submitted by Farzana Shahid. (Canada), Feb 18, 2003 at 12:38

Dr. Pipes,
You are right in concluding that Palestinian rejectionism flourishes but Mr. Sharon's policies only fuel these sentiments further. Afterall, a peace settlement was very close to being reached two years ago and a Palestinian state would have been created only in the West Bank and Gaza. Mr. Sharon's policies have resulted in the deaths of over two thousand Palestinians, compared to the seven hundred Israelis killed in the latest cycle of violence. It is hard to determine who the real victims are in this much prolonged conflict.
Israel must be recognised and must be given a chance to live in peace with its Arab neighbors. A year ago the Saudi government came up with a plan and promise by Arab states to extend this peace initiative. Similarly, many right wing Israelis ought to recognise the Palestinian right to self- determination, as well as other rights that most citizens of nations enjoy. What should be understood by all concerned is that there can be no peace unless there is justice for everyone. This will be accomplised only if both sides show some generosity towards one another. The onus in my opinion lies with the stronger of the two parties.
In the end I would also like to state that moving the American embassy to Jerusalem will only add fuel to fire at this very volatile and critical juncture in history.

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