Middle East

The crisis in the Middle East seems to have no end. Even within Israel and Palestine, citizens disagree over what policies can and should resolve the conflict and eliminate violence. Intervention from the international community is only likely to cause further resentment, especially on the part of the Palestinians who believe that their predicament was caused by Western imperialism. Indeed, colonialism and imperialism are at the root of the problems facing Israel and Palestine. The only viable solution to the crisis is the swift creation of a Palestinian state, coupled with the removal of the settlements on the West Bank.

However, the problem will not vanish if a Palestinian state exists or if the occupied territories are returned to the Palestinians. Terrorism has become an unfortunate part of the political and social fabric of the Middle East. Extricating terrorism depends on a systematic change in education and other social institutions. Moreover, a great deal of resentment and prejudice against a perceived enemy prevents meaningful reconciliation between Jews and Muslims in the Middle East. Theological differences are the least important issue facing Jews and Muslims. The Palestinians rightfully believe that the British stole their homelands from them after the Second World War, and that both the United Kingdom and the Untied States unabashedly support Israel. The Israelis, on the other hand, point to the recurring incidences of terrorism that plague the country and prevent peace.

When both sides focus on the past instead of the future, the crisis will never disappear. Instead, political leaders need to focus on creating a multifaceted solution to the problem that most likely entails making Jerusalem an international zone. If a Palestinian state is created, it must be dedicated to the eradication of terrorism. Likewise, Israel must agree to cease treating Palestinians in Israel like second-class citizens and move toward a more egalitarian and free society.