Israel's True Face

Excerpt from the end:

I am a young Israeli and as such I can say with great confidence that the young generation is keen to see steps toward peace. Many Israelis believe that this is a crucial time for Israel, a time when the people's voice must be heard. We believe that pursuing peace is a strategic imperative for Israel's future and also a Jewish-moral one stems from our heritage: since the Exodus from Egypt, through our ancient prophets who sought peace; to the days of modern Israel, which has made some painful concessions in order to fulfill this higher purpose.

The poll well demonstrates the frustration of the young Israelis by the reality which former Israeli generations (and Palestinian as well) have led to: 85 percent of the Israelis between ages 18-24 believe that another violent confrontation is the most plausible scenario in the absence of progress in the peace process.

When criticizing Israel, it is important to distinguish between the government (which does not represent Israel fully and accurately) and the people. Most Israelis might feel that the food costs are more urgent to solve, they might feel that peace is not within reach, but one thing is indisputable -- their hope for life of genuine peace.

In order to promote a future peace agreement, all of us have some obligations to fulfill: we -- the Israelis -- must replace this government with a better one, one that will work on the important challenges Israel's facing and not just on those which may seem more urgent and more influencing on the daily lives. The Israeli sane majority must carry more weight in politics and policy making, and not let the extremists lead the country towards a messianic vision. And what about the world? The world should support and call for direct negotiations and avoid any unilateral steps (such as recognition of a state that can only be established through negotiations). Such steps can only damage the peace process and make the Israelis be more prudent and uneasy as they consider further major steps for peace in a turbulent and raging Middle East.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jonathan-biron/israels-true-face_b_6003926.html

For people who are curious to hear from the youth in the region.