“Several top officials close to the negotiations conceded to CNN that it is hard to be optimistic about a peace deal at the moment,” according to CNN.
I think that say that it is “hard to be optimistic,” is a serious understatement and points to a major flaw in the Administration’s strategy. It is nearly impossible to be optimistic about an attempt to create a comprehensive peace plan in one year – “At stake is a unique “window of opportunity” for a breakthrough in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within the next year, according George Mitchell.
Note to President Obama: Holding talks is absolutely the correct thing to do. But set your goal at something more realistic; something that will allow both sides to build trust as a foundation for a next step. Perhaps encourage Palestinians to fight terror and encourage Israelis to reward the Palestinian people for peace, i.e. for every peaceful month another group of blockades comes down.
Mr. Obama, take your time. Remember that former President Clinton pushed Yasser Arafat too hard. Arafat had planned for war in the months leading up to what should have been a deal. Arafat trained his people for war with vows of destroying Israel. Accepting peace was akin to surrender. Arafat needed time and persuasion, but instead he was rushed.
Take your time, Mr. President.
