By Lloyd Levy
LONDON–The dire state of the Kerry Peace effort was just so predictable. How did he have the arrogance and vanity to think that he can solve a problem that has eluded the whole world for over 100 years?
The “process” became the objective, and not the real needs of both sides.
One would have thought that the failed efforts of President Clinton (maybe Clinton 1, if another President Clinton 2 becomes a reality ?), would surely have been an object lesson for any rational person. Maybe it is time for Kerry to lift up his eyes and see the turmoil developing in the rest of the World, and apply himself to those more pressing problems.
I assume Netanyahu puts up with Kerry because he has no alternative, and is praying that the USA elections in a couple of years time, brings forward a more sympathetic Administration. As for the Palestinians, they are getting billions of dollars in aid and baksheesh from Europe, and that wont change.
There will be no solution if the focus remains on dividing a tiny strip of land between two peoples totalling in excess of 12 million souls. The land area simply isn’t enough to play with. In addition, what about Hamas in Gaza? How on earth were they supposed to fit into the picture even assuming an agreement could be reached with Abbas?
Nevertheless, I am optimistic that a wider approach to solving the problem is becoming feasible. It would involve a more regional approach to the definition of “Israel/Palestine,” almost going back to the original British Mandate geography. The area covered would be Gaza with the El -Arish area of Sinai; and some arrangement with the current Kingdom of Jordan, as well as Israel and the West Bank.
The “Arab Spring” (if ever there was a misnomer !) has led to a major shake up in alliances in the area. Egypt, Saudi Arabia, most Gulf Sates, and on the side lines Jordan, are in alliance to confront Iran. It may well be possible for Israel to negotiate a wider agreement with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, to define a territorial solution along the lines outlined above. There are other Palestinian factions to negotiate with other than Abbas and his cronies.
Thus personally I think the current stalemate is no reason for pessimism, but on the contrary it may be an opportunity for the countries in the area themselves, to get to grips with the issue, without outside interference.
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Lloyd Levy is a freelance writer and businessman who divides his time between London, England, and Eilat, Israel. He may be contacted via lloyd.levy@sdjewishworld.com San Diego Jewish World seeks sponsorships to be placed, as this notice is, just below articles that appear on our site. To inquire, call editor Donald H. Harrison at (619) 265-0808 or contact him via donald.harrison@sdjewishworld.com