Seeking a Shared Vision
by Matthew Hodes
Most people think of the conflict in the Middle East in the context of the three major faiths – Judaism, Christianity and Islam – coming together there. But history’s most recent series of conflicts related at least as much to issues of nationstate geopolitics, the fallout of World War II and the detritus of imperialism, with roots all the way to the Ottoman Empire.
Today that historical perspective has evolved: we no longer think of conflict between nation-states such as between Israel and Egypt or Israel and Jordan. Even Israel’s problems with Syria appear to be manageable. Today the focus has shifted to the more complex matter of Israel and the Palestinians living under Israeli occupation.
A significant element of the population of both sides, Israelis and Palestinians, understands the imperative of compromise for respective self-interests and the benefit of a long-term peace agreement. However, some people on both sides are unable to see that logic, and almost every day we see evidence of emotional connections to arguments that prevent bold action for long-term peace.
The Conflict Resolution Program at the Carter Center addresses issues related to conflicts anywhere in the world and monitors them on a global basis. In the context of the Middle East, President Carter has historically provided ample room to the administration in office to follow its chosen policy. Our question becomes, what can we do to add value in the Middle East where the international community is heavily engaged and where the United States government has a clear agenda?
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