As Mideast peace talks begin today and the leaders of Israel and a possible Palestinian state sit down with representatives of the US state department conservatives On both sides of the Atlantic would have us think that this is doomed to be yet another in a long List of failed tries for peace.
But you know, there’s something very different about the set up for these talks. I believe it has everything to do with Barack
Obama’s earlier attempts to show the world that Israel does not have American foreign policy in a headlock and that showing the Arab world even a little respect can go a long way.
No one, and I mean no one should minimize this attempt for peace---and I know how hopeless both sides—Palestinian and Israeli—are and have been on the seeming impossibility of finding a way to keep the more extreme elements out of the equasion—and of course, I mean Hamas.
But let’s not forget that there is extremism on both sides of any argument. However, if level heads can prevail---and this will not be easy as atrocities are sure to occur as radicals on both sides attempt to derail these talks—then some good will come of this.
Deciding to meet again is an exceptionally good sign---since it is only ongoing and sustained dialogue that will bridge any gap in ideologies between neighbors or nations.
Let’s not criticize the peace process—instead, let’s put those who would mock it under the microscope---Matt Drudge and Fox News, just for starters.