Politically speaking, Mr. Netanyhu was elected by a coalition of conservative and religious groups who did not agree with the past practices and agreements of the Peres and Rabin administrations. In fact, it was their intent to roll-back or resist as many of the provisions of the PLO peace accord as was feasibly possible.
Now, faced with the most recent crisis of the "Tourist Tunnel" controversy, Netanyhu finds himself being criticized by both European and Mid-Eastern leaders and at a cross-road in PLO/Israeli relations. He must decide if political and security concerns out-weigh previous agreements made by the Israeli government. Most of all, Netanyhu and the Israeli people must decide if Israel is to continue on a course that may provide peace, in exchange for land that was paid for in Israeli blood in 1967 and 1973.
The issues in this conflict are not clear cut, as they often are not in such geo-political struggles. But, in our opinion, at least five things should be given appropriate consideration in the coming days:
The issue of the Jerusalem "tourist tunnel" is really inconsequential and should not be given such importance by the
Palestinians or the media. It is a "red herring" used to incite violence and express PLO displeasure with Netanyhu's
reluctance to move forward with a withdrawal of Hebron and further "land for peace" deals. Israel must live up to agreements that they have already made, including the Oslo accords. To do otherwise will
undermine the standing of Israel in the world community and place the credibility of the Netanyhu administration in
question. Regardless of internal political considerations, or disagreement with the actions of previous administrations,
agreements already signed must be honored and the necessary actions taken to fulfill Israel's obligations. Most assuredly,
the Netanyhu administration will decide about current and future agreements, but it is important that they honor the word of
Israel from the past. The PLO must do everything within its power to end this latest rioting and discourage further violence. The current
situation makes it appear that the PLO is involved in the use of terrorism, intimidation, and the threat of general unrest to
press its demands for greater autonomy and control of more territories. The PLO's history of past involvement in terrorism
and political violence should not give it the latitude to use a threat of further violence as a negotiating ploy. Israel must be assured by all parties of its internal security and borders. It must be allowed to protect itself in ways
deemed necessary. The recent movement of Syrian and Hezbollah military forces, to the edges of the Israeli borders, did
little to contribute to the peace process and probably contributed to the current unrest. In fact, they could appear to
Netanyhu and his advisors as evidence of an orchestrated intimidation by Palestinians and their Islamic extremist
supporters. Much could be accomplished to de-escalate current tensions, by the withdrawal of these antagonists. If the two sides actually want a just and lasting peace, it is suggested that purposeful multi-lateral talks be begun, at the
earliest opportunity. Further, these talks should not be sponsored by countries with a direct geographic, political, or
ideological interest in the conflict. A traditionally neutral country like Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, or Australia
might be a good choice to mediate the talks. It is suggested that, due to ongoing political influences, that the United Nations
may not be a suitable forum.In conclusion, it is our opinion at ERRI, that what is most needed right now is an end to the escalating rhetoric and posturing by all of the other countries that have interjected themselves into this debate. The issue can only be peacefully resolved by rational and amiable negotiations between the Palestinian people and Israeli people. After all, it is they who must live together after all the talking is done.
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