I never give advice without asking a lot of questions first. There are too many levels of subtext here to speak to just one level. In this case, I would have to draw a diagram, laying out all the subtexts first.
Wonder if I did that, if I could get anyone to agree with me?
On one side, the Palestinians. On one level, they say that all they want is a land of their own. Such a simple, touching request. On another level, some, if not all, say to each other that all they want is all the land that is now Israel, because it all belongs to them.
On the other side, the Israelis. They, too, say on one level, that all they want is a land of their own. But, they say, they are willing to allow the Palestinians to live in a land of their own, too. Only, it must not threaten the safety of Israel.
And then they say things like "we offered 95% of what they asked," conveniently ignoring the fact that what they are offering will be non-contiguous, and still require checkpoints by armed IDF. Reservations.
Hey, I"ve got relatives on reservations. They're not the hardest working, most industrious members of the family. Reservations are not much fun.
I am well aware that some Palestinians practice a version of cargo-cult -- if only they had the good land they would be rich, too. Forget the fact that the Israelis made it rich.
Layers upon layers.
We both know that Sharon believes that the settlements are essential to Israel's safety and wellbeing, not to mention the fact that Israel is a rather small nation and the settlements enhance her size rather nicely. A prize of war -- too bad they won it in the wrong century for prizes of war.
Nobody likes to give up something of value in a negotiation. But most negotiators want to settle. In my world, when people are too far apart to settle, we go to court and let a judge decide. It's not ideal, but it is final.
Where I come from, finality is a good thing. People move on. They heal.
I have never dickered with an Israeli nor a Palestinian but apparently they drive hard bargains. They are willing to lose their own children to make a point.
I'd be happy to give advice if you are willing to answer my questions honestly. |
