Good succinct summary of the current impasse in Israel/Palestine. I agree that the only way forward is a single secular state. However this does not necessarily have to be a unitary state. There are many other possibilities such as my own country Canada which is a binational and federal state (also Belgium). The final form would depend on good faith negotiations between both parties. Right now I really worry about Palestinians and the severe repression they are now experiencing. However for the long term I also worry about Israelis. The current situation cannot last even if Israel can deal a crushing blow to the Palestinians resistance now. How can a country survive surrounded by people who hate it, and if it goes further and further into international isolation due to its arrogance. Sooner or later capable and strong leadership will arise in the countries surrounding Israel, and if Israel has not made any accommodations to Palestinians and these countries, it’s chances of survival are slim.
I do not see a two-state solution being workable. Remember East and West Pakistan? Israel cannot be trusted cede an easement for transit of people and products between Gaza and the West Bank.
So two great minds, Ian Welsh and Thomas Neuburger have recently advocated for a single secular state to replace today's Israel and Palestine. Hardly anyone else seems to like this idea which to me says that this is the solution that must be choked down by Israel and Palestine.
Reparations to Palestinians will be a major issue for this new secular state. Better for the new state to deal with the issue than some hand-waving at the U.N.
May these Palestinian children grow up in a state that provides security and an environment that fosters two all too often hidden traits: forgiveness and self-determination.
Good succinct summary of the current impasse in Israel/Palestine. I agree that the only way forward is a single secular state. However this does not necessarily have to be a unitary state. There are many other possibilities such as my own country Canada which is a binational and federal state (also Belgium). The final form would depend on good faith negotiations between both parties. Right now I really worry about Palestinians and the severe repression they are now experiencing. However for the long term I also worry about Israelis. The current situation cannot last even if Israel can deal a crushing blow to the Palestinians resistance now. How can a country survive surrounded by people who hate it, and if it goes further and further into international isolation due to its arrogance. Sooner or later capable and strong leadership will arise in the countries surrounding Israel, and if Israel has not made any accommodations to Palestinians and these countries, it’s chances of survival are slim.
Thanks, Malcolm. Good questions.
Thomas
I do not see a two-state solution being workable. Remember East and West Pakistan? Israel cannot be trusted cede an easement for transit of people and products between Gaza and the West Bank.
So two great minds, Ian Welsh and Thomas Neuburger have recently advocated for a single secular state to replace today's Israel and Palestine. Hardly anyone else seems to like this idea which to me says that this is the solution that must be choked down by Israel and Palestine.
Reparations to Palestinians will be a major issue for this new secular state. Better for the new state to deal with the issue than some hand-waving at the U.N.
May these Palestinian children grow up in a state that provides security and an environment that fosters two all too often hidden traits: forgiveness and self-determination.
Quite the compliment. Thanks!
Thomas
I see biblical history repeating itself. Israel will be destroyed.
The question that remains is whether or not Israel's destruction will result in the end of humanity itself.
A painful clarity is always a forerunner to enlightenment - Thank you!