Brit Tzedek v'Shalom

Jewish Alliance for Justice and Peace

Chapter Activities

Madison, WI

Isthmus
May 2004
Letter in response to an article about a pro-Palestinian activist

By Michael Gelman
Member of Brit Tzedek v'Shalom

Fayyad Sbaihat is correct that suicide terror is counterproductive for the Palestinian cause, but his strategy of promoting outrage and sanctions is also problematic.

Economic pressure against Israel is likely to further damage both the Israeli and Palestinian economies, which are highly interdependent and already in dire straits. A truly lasting solution is possible only with the realization, by responsible leaders on both sides, that a two-state peace is in the best interest of both peoples. Fortunately, there is already a broad consensus in favor of two states at both the popular (the "People's Voice" initiative of former Shin Bet chief Ami Ayalon and Palestinian intellectual Sari Nusseibeh) and political (the Geneva Accords) levels.

The views of a few angry and vocal extremists all too often overshadow the positive intentions of the majority of Israelis and Palestinians. America can and must do more to promote these moderate voices, encourage further negotiations toward a two-state solution, and assist all parties to the conflict in actively fulfilling their prior commitments to peace.

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