The Middle East: What’s Different Now?
Obama is pushing for a two state solution to conflict in the Middle East between Israelis and Palestinians. Syria may have expressed there is a possibility of peace with Israel but the condition still hinges on the Palestinian question so what has really changed? A report indicates the US will not talk to Hezbollah as Britain will. Iran backs Hezbollah (among others) and the report below indicates Hezbollah will never recognize Israel.
Israel, a tiny country surrounded by a vast geographic expanse of Arab countries. Some of the problems have been centered on access or ownership of areas of religious significance but that seems to be more of an excuse to continue fighting than an honest grievance. The ‘bad blood’ between the two sides has a long history and to the casual observer it would seem much of the problem stems from violence through recent history more than any long standing disagreements.
Arab countries have held ’summits’ to address their own problems with each other. Could it be some would like to take advantage of a new leader from Israel’s most staunch ally, the US, and come to some sort of equitable solution? Even if that were true how do you keep all the parties in line that feel they have some sort of stake in this?
It really is not a simple problem to solve. But it seems the strategies offered or attempted over many years are merely repeats of failed attempts from the past. What is needed? Those directly involved, Israelis and Arabs, must find a way to put aside the anger and hate to do the right thing. Anything short of that will not work since a solution requires all involved to stop the madness. That is why this blog’s author is not optimistic this problem will be solved in our lifetime.
Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com
Hezbollah Chief Vows to Never Recognize Israel |
|
March 2009 |
The leader of Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group said Friday his movement will never recognize Israel.
In a speech marking the birthday of the Prophet Mohammed, Hassan Nasrallah said he rejected American conditions for dialogue, including recognition of the state of Israel.
The United States considers Hezbollah a terrorist organization and has called on the Shi’ite group to renounce violence.
During his speech, Nasrallah also welcomed Arab reconciliation efforts and called on Arab nations to show support for Iran, which backs Hezbollah.
Saudi Arabia and Egypt held talks with Syria in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, this week, in a bid to mend rifts.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP.