Reply #4: Comes down to a fundamentally different understanding of the conflict. [View All]

I believe the occupation is the core issue, and that it is ongoing, not because Palestinians are "bad" or that too many people don't have the right attitude, but because on some level, it serves the interests of those with power in Israel.

Right now, expect for those in rocket proximity to Gaza, life for Israelis goes on uninterrupted. They work, vacation, travel, dance in discos... There is really no price to be paid for their country having their boot on the necks of millions, much less for the slaughter their gov't committed in Gaza this past month.

I believe the only way we will have change is not by convincing more Israelis that Palestinians really *are* human beings who deserve the same rights they enjoy, but by simply making it too uncomforable for them to continue with the status quo. best way to bring that about is by making it too painful for the average Israeli. Palestinians don't have enough fire power to do that. I think being culturally, academically and financially isolated might just provide that leverage.

I know you don't agree with this view.

I am curious as to how those with your view of conflict resolution would regard this analysis by liberation Zionist Bernard Avishai... I'd be interested in your response.

http://bernardavishai.blogspot.com/2009/01/apocalypse-now.html

I felt pretty hopeless after reading it, and I think it sheds light on the weakness of your POV.