Our Reflections on the Political-Historical Situation

The roots of most of the major political issues we note below can be traced directly to relatively recent historical events. (See Appendix A for a chronology.)

1. There have always been contradictions in the goals of those who promoted and established the modern state of Israel. Israel was to be an ethnic/religious homeland and at the same time a European style secular democracy. Further, it was to be established on land that was already populated by peoples of Arab origin without compromising their rights (according to the Balfour Declaration).

2. The “two state” solution now accepted in principle by all stakeholders in the region creates a host of other issues that need to be addressed:

The recognition, by other nations in the region, of the right of Israel to exist and hold land.

The just division of the land in terms of access to sea ports, water, agricultural land, and other issues that contribute to an ability to create a viable, economic basis for the states.

Israel's ancient claim to all the land to the Jordan.

The status of the International Cities of Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

The claims of three religious groups to sacred, historical sites.

3. The history has left unequal powers in the area. Israel is militarily strong, economically wealthy, and politically organized. Palestine has struggled to establish a clear and authoritative voice.

4. Israel has built settlements in Palestinian territory that it occupies. The status of the Occupied Territories is unsettled and international law has not settled the issues of ownership and right to the land.

5. The rise of Islamic fundamentalism has exacerbated the issue and the resultant violence has made security a major issue for Israel.

6. The support of Israel by the United States and the lack of resolve from America to sustain a protracted effort for peace has contributed to the issue.

7. The failure of the international community to enforce international law and previously ratified agreements has muddied the issues of justice and answers to the question, “What conditions would be necessary to establish a just peace in the region?”

8. Several pre-requisites to a sustainable and just peace for all parties seem clear:

The present condition of the Palestinian population in the regions occupied or controlled by Israel is untenable, unjust, and dangerous. The onus lies with Israel to change this and create conditions whereby Palestinians might once again hope to thrive.

Israal's right to exist must be recognized by all nations. This is an Israel with internationally recognized borders and one committed to the pursuit of peace.

That violence, armed conflict and the threat of armed conflict must cease. The issue of national security is a proper concern for Israel and the Palestinians. The killing of non-combatants must be stopped on all sides.

Palestinians need to establish a National Authority reasonably capable of fulfilling the reasonable expectations of good governance.