If you look, there’s a lot out there about the “disengagement” of Israel from Gaza. (For those not following the story, this is about the forced evacuation by the Israeli government of Jewish residents of 20 communities in the Gaza Strip). I’ll just make a couple of brief comments about it, without denying the complexities of the issue.
1. Has there ever been a move “of peace” by Israel that resulted in better relations with the Palestinians? I cannot think of one. Why then does the Israeli government (and majority of Israeli citizens) think that this time will be any different? I don’t think that it is a foolish optimism (such as is characteristic of Americans).
2. Does anyone really think that there will be less violence in/with Gaza than there has been in recent years? What will happen, in the opinion of many, is that Gaza will become the new Afghanistan – a breeding ground for terrorists, moreso than it already is. The degree to which it is “successful” in this in directly proportional to the degree that Israel gives in to Palestinian demands (e.g., to allow free Palestinian movement on land and sea borders).
Poor Condoleeza Rice – what a lousy job she has. Does she really believe what she says when she tells the Israelis to withdraw but not to seal Gaza off? That the Palestinians want their cake and to eat it too (that is, to have full freedom to develop terrorism and also to enjoy the benefits of Israeli economics) should surprise no one, but that Rice is their advocate should. Assuming that she is honest. Though that’s one requirement for working at the US State Department – you simply can’t be honest (for then you would be choosing sides).
Todd, do you think if Kerry were President that it would be much different? Would he take the same exact stance you think? Kind of interesting all the bitterness between the Republicans and Democrats; but would they differ on this “vital” issue?
Happy, the various administrations are remarkably consistent, largely, I believe, because the State Department personnel essentially remains the same. Kerry may have been less friendly to Israel, but it’s hard to really know what a politician will do based on what he says in the campaign.