KP Newsflash (9/2/2010): As Bibi and Abu Mazen Go To Washington....
The direct negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians is about to begin in a few hours in Washington. I welcome the Israeli Prime Minister's declaration that Mahmoud Abbas is his partner for peace. As this begins, I wonder whether both sides have the courage to truly go beyond the now and surprise the World. I yearn for the courage of Rabin, Sadat, Begin and King Hussein. There are also other key stakeholders in Washington as well: King Abdullah, Hosni Mubarak and Tony Blair---the former British Prime Minister and the Envoy for the Quartet.
As this day has drawn near, extremists on both sides have struck out. Whether it has been Hamas on the Palestinian Side or the wackos on the Jewish side, the road being taken by Bibi and Abu Mazen is fraught with danger. Furthermore, American Presidents have tried and not succeeded. Jimmy Carter achieved a miracle with Camp David. But, it cost Anwar Sadat his life.
Mr.Obama will be trying to make it work. I wish him the best as he begins this perilous journey. The Palestinian Prime Minister, Salam Fayed, is continuing his efforts, though, to build organs of a State. That's the more interesting story that is yet to be told. I continue to remain hopeful despite all the setbacks and the disappointments.
Mike Pouraryan
