No shortcuts to Middle East peace
Western pressure on Israel and praise for Palestine only delays resolution
The West appears to be losing patience for the Arab-Israeli conflict. Some are looking for shortcuts, including many undoubtedly well-intentioned British members of Parliament who recently called for the recognition of Palestine as a state. At the same time, many in the West are escalating their critical rhetoric against Israel, and regrettably, against Israel alone.
Perhaps this focus is understandable. Israel is rightfully seen (and sees itself) as part of the West, as the only democratic “responsible adult” in the area. The Palestinians are seen as children — guiltless and unaccountable — at once victims of and heirs to the Arab world’s tradition of political irresponsibility.… Seguir leyendo »