If there are any signs of hope left in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, it is only that the Palestinians have continued to press for negotiations and a peaceful settlement, despite the continued brutality of the Israeli army and the lack of interest in a peaceful solution on the part of the current Israeli government. Akiva Eldar reports here on a conference he recently attended in Bruges, Belgium. One of the most interesting things about the conference was the statement of principles for a just settlement, put forward by attorney Ziyad Abu Zayad, until recently the Minister for Jerusalem Affairs in the PA, and a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council.
The fact that the Israeli government continues to totally ignore (if not humiliate) moderate Palestinians is very sad indeed, for those of us brought up on the myth that all Israel wants is peace. But it is obvious, that the Palestinians are trying to get the ear of the American President. Recent events clearly show that if Bush wants to pressure the Israeli government to do something, he can, with very effective results. The clear and forthright statements coming from the Palestinian leadership (in contrast to Sharon’s bombast and obfuscation), can’t be ignored forever.