November 16, 2009

Would Israel Accept a 'State and a Half' Solution?

Akiva Eldar, Haaretz

AP Photo

Kadima MK Shaul Mofaz's peace plan is a refreshing change, particularly in light of his past, although no peace agreement will emerge from it. For 21 years and a day, since the Palestine Liberation Organization declared independence in Algiers, its leaders have not lowered their price: recognition of Israel and an end to hostilities in exchange for a Palestinian state within the June 4, 1967 borders with East Jerusalem the capital. The only "discount" that Israel has received since then was Yasser Arafat's concession of 2 percent of the West Bank in exchange for other territory and safe passage between the West Bank and Gaza Strip. That was the only deal that won Arab consensus.

Jordan's King Hussein, considered an especially moderate leader, said that...

Read Full Article ››

TAGGED: Israel, Hussein, Avi Shlaim, Shaul Mofaz, King , Jerusalem, Algiers, Palestine Liberation Organization

RECOMMENDED ARTICLES

With President Obama running for re-election, the two leaders were probably fated to soon find themselves in a showdown in any case. A reelected Obama will probably return to his pet issue, Palestinian independence, and apply... more ››
May 8, 2012
Unity Deal Unleashes Political Storm in Israel
Lis & Bar-Zohar, Haaretz
While President Shimon Peres says unity government will help Israel face challenges, Israel Labor Party leader Shelly Yacimovich calls it 'an alliance of cowards.' more ››
May 11, 2012
Israel Unites to Face Iran
Charles Krauthammer, Washington Post
The wall-to-wall coalition demonstrates Israel's political readiness to attack, if necessary. (Its military readiness is not in doubt.) more ››
May 13, 2012
A United, Strong Israel
Washington Post
It's true that a more stable and centrist Israeli government may take action on Iran or Palestinian statehood. Mr. Netanyahu is positioned to move aggressively in either area. But whether he does is likely to depend more on... more ››
Mr Netanyahu's previous coalition partners, mainly rightist and religious parties, will stay put for now in what the prime minister proudly describes as the largest-ever Israeli coalition. But if Likud and Kadima proceed with... more ››