Foundation for Middle East Peace
Director of Research and Publications of the Foundation for Middle East Peace, a nonprofit organization that promotes a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine
PROFILE
Geoffrey Aronson
Guest
FROM Geoffrey Aronson
To the Point
John Kerry's Gamble on 'Middle East Peace' John Kerry has acknowledged that there is skepticism — even cynicism — about renewing the Israeli-Palestinian peace talks that broke off five years ago. But, during his first months as Secretary of State, that's what he's focused on, with repeated visits and at least ten long phone calls with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. He says improving the West Bank's economy would be a good start, but neither side has shown any change on issues necessary to a two-state solution. Israeli settlements, Palestinian refugees, Jerusalem and national boundaries are as divisive as ever. Palestinians are politically and geographically divided. Polls show that neither side really believes that peace has a chance. Does the US have the power — and the commitment -- to make a difference?
Which Way, L.A.?
Barack Obama and the Muslim World President Obama delivered his much-awaited speech at Cairo University, paying tribute to the Egyptian people and the contribution of Islam to the history of science and culture. But he called this "a time of tension between the US and Muslims around the world" caused by historical forces, including colonialism, the Cold War and the changes brought by modernity.
To the Point
President Obama Speaks in Cairo President Obama delivered his much-awaited speech at Cairo University today, paying tribute to the Egyptian people and the contribution of Islam to the history of science and culture. He called for an end to the tensions between Muslims and the United States that have been caused by historical forces, including colonialism, the Cold War and the changes brought by modernity. He explained his goals in Iraq and Afghanistan, addressed Iran's nuclear aspirations and cited the Koran in a call for speaking truth after years of mistrust. Did he reach young people on the Arab street? Will his words make a difference to Israelis and Palestinians? What about Muslims in other parts of the world? We sample reactions from a variety of sources.
To the Point
In the Middle East, New Strategies or More of the Same? Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice announced today that the US today will lift the embargo placed on the Palestinian Authority when Hamas won parliamentary elections 18 months ago. Also today, the European Union said it will resume direct aid to the Palestinian Authority now that Hamas is out of the government. Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, who will meet tomorrow in Washington with President Bush, has indicated that Israel might turn over tax money it's been withholding. It's all about bolstering the secular Fatah faction in the West Bank and isolating Islamic Hamas after last week's military takeover of Gaza. Since Hamas took control of Gaza, Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has formed a new government, excluding the radical Islamic group. What are the benefits and risks of further dividing the Palestinian people? What are the strengths and weaknesses of Hamas and Fatah, and what's at stake for the region as a whole?
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