Reply #27: Several Points, Sir [View All]

[The Magistrate]

Quashing the settlers in the Jordan valley is not the same thing as relenquishing military occupation of the Jordan valley. These are two completely different things. It is true that in my view Israel would be better advised, viewing the matter in the long term, to relenquish its occupation as well, despite the likely immediate difficulties that course would likely entail, but it is quite possible to do the things seperately.

My own taste in negotiation is to do first what is my power to right whatever is wrong with my own situation: this places an onus on the other party to reciprocate in kind, and demonstrates to neutrals that my later insistencies are well grounded. Nor does it seem to me to be wise for any entity to put off doing something that it is clearly in its own best interest to do.

It is certainly true there are people who hate Israel to the degree you state: nothing will satisfy them. But it is best to strip these of all possible cover, so that it becomes clear to all who do not share their hate that hatred is the originating point of their outlook and statements on the matter. This will greatly diminish their influence.