===============================================================================

1. Israeli-Palestinian Peacemaking in Time of Unprecedented Flux
2. Prominent American Leaders Respond to Palestinian Elections
3. New Debate on Aid to the Palestinians & the Current Situation in West Bank/Gaza
4. Jerusalem News
5. Israeli and Palestinian Public Opinion Polls on Peace

 ===============================================================================  

   1. Israeli-Palestinian Peacemaking in Time of Unprecedented Flux

Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking is clearly in a time of unprecedented flux, with the Hamas victory in the Palestinian elections creating a new and complex reality.  The Quartet’s January 30^th statement remains the basis for what the new Palestinian government must commit to: “non-violence, recognition of Israel, and acceptance of previous agreements and obligations, including the Road Map.”  As we await the formation of the new Palestinian government and the outcome of Israel’s March 28^th elections, now is a time to wait and see.  With the two-state solution, where a secure Israel and a viable Palestinian state live side-by-side, still presenting the only tenable option that will bring peace and security for both peoples, policymakers should take into consideration the necessity of both pressing Hamas to change, while also keeping open the possibility for progress and moderation, and ensuring that the United States can remain engaged in peacemaking.  The following articles by a prominent Israeli, Palestinian and former US official caution against seeing the present situation as the end of the peace process and offer possible ways forward. 

“Between the Palestinian and Israeli Elections: The Current Situation and Where We Go From Here”, Major General (res.) Shlomo Gazit, Middle East Institute Policy Brief, Washington, DC, March 1, 2006

“In the weeks following Palestinian legislative elections, there has been wide speculation as to the future of the peace process. Israeli Major General (res.) Shlomo Gazit cautioned his audience against relying too heavily on current headlines and offered history as an alternative perspective. The Arab-Israeli peace process has weathered many storms, but it has nonetheless continued. Gazit advised that the Hamas victory be treated no differently…”  

http://www.mideasti.org/articles/doc500.html 

(Also see: “Don’t Rush to Judge with Hamas in Power”, Shlomo Gazit, Boston Globe, February 23, 2006: http://www.boston.com/news/globe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2006/02/23/dont_rush_to_judge_with_hamas_in_power/) 

“What the P.L.O. Has to Offer”, Saeb Erekat, New York Times Op-Ed, March 1, 2006

“Many have argued that Hamas's winning of a decisive majority in the Palestinian Parliament provides yet another setback for peace and democracy in the Middle East. Some have even suggested that it vindicates Israeli unilateralism. I, however, think the opposite is true: A negotiated and lasting peace may now be closer than many of us could have imagined just weeks ago…”

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/01/opinion/29erekat.html

"Making The Best of Hamas' Victory", Robert Malley, The Baltimore Sun, February 19, 2006

“Hamas' stunning electoral triumph last month has generated widespread alarm, calls to shun the Palestinian Authority and pleas to cut off aid.  The reaction reflects opposition to bankrolling an organization that has neither recognized Israel nor renounced violence. It is premised on the hope that Hamas, confronting international pressure, will be forced to change its ideology or, starved of resources, be forced out of power. All of which, given Hamas' history, is understandable. But it also might be shortsighted and, ultimately, self-defeating.  If dealt with wisely, the Islamists' victory could present an opportunity for the United States to promote its core interests without betraying its core principles…”

http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?id=3969&l=1

   2. Prominent American Leaders Respond to Palestinian elections

“Despite Hamas’ Electoral Victory, U.S. Should Remain Committed to Two States”, Joel Tauber and George Salem, Campaign for American Leadership in the Middle East (CALME), February 23, 2006

“The Campaign for American Leadership in the Middle East (CALME) exists to encourage President Bush to work toward fulfilling his vision of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Hamas’ victory in the recent Palestinian parliamentary elections may cause you to wonder if a two-state solution is even possible in the near future. Because of its terrorist activities and refusal to recognize the right of Israel to exist, Hamas’ victory clearly constitutes a setback in the peace process.  We believe, however, the majority of the Palestinian people share the same values and goals that Israelis and Americans do—that of self determination, economic prosperity, strong democracy, an end to terrorism, and a two-state solution. According to exit polls (as stated in Newsweek), three quarters of all Palestinians, including more than 60 percent of Hamas supporters, are willing to support reconciliation between Palestinians and Israelis based on a two-state solution. For Hamas and the new Palestinian government to participate in these values, the new Palestinian government must recognize the right of Israel to exist and renounce terrorism. It is important for Hamas to remain mindful of the priorities of the Palestinian people and adapt to reflect these Palestinian values. The best way to achieve these values and goals is for the United States and the Israelis and Palestinians to remain committed to the two-state vision in the Middle East…A two-state solution may not be a reality in the near future, but it is important for us to be ready to act immediately when the opportunity for a two- state solution arises…”

To read the CALME campaign’s letter to the President and see the list of prominent Americans, including Jewish, Christian and Muslim leaders go to: www.mideastcalm.org. 

“Bishop Urges Palestinian Leaders to Recognize Israel’s Right to Exist; Also Says Means Should be Found to Deliver Needed Aid to the Palestinian People,” United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, March 3, 2006

“In a letter to Chairman Henry Hyde of the House Committee on International Relations, Bishop Thomas G. Wenski said aid should not be withheld from the Palestinian people because of the possible actions of their political leaders.  Bishop Wenski is Chairman of the Committee on International Policy, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).  New realities in Palestine present challenges but they also offer opportunities for all parties to make a firm commitment to peace, said Bishop Wenski. ‘We strongly urge the Palestinian leaders to clearly and unequivocally recognize the right of Israel to exist within secure borders; that all parties renounce the use of terrorism and violence to achieve their political goals; and that all parties commit themselves to seek a viable two state solution, an aspiration shared by both Israelis and Palestinians as well as the international community. Likewise, we also urge all parties to respect human rights and religious freedom.’…”
For full text of the letter go to: http://www.usccb.org/comm/archives/2006/06-042.shtml

“Jewish, Christian and Muslim Leaders Call for Careful Response to Hamas' Victory; Urge President Bush to Make Peace A Top Priority and Take Four Positive Steps”, National Interreligious Leadership Initiative, February, 2006

”Thirty-six Jewish, Christian and Muslim leaders, including heads of 25 national organizations, launched a nationwide appeal today, urging President Bush to make Israeli-Palestinian peace an urgent priority for U.S. policy in the coming months.  In light of "Hamas' victory in Palestinian elections and the incapacitating illness of Ariel Sharon, religious leaders wrote a letter to President Bush saying "it is more important than ever that Israelis and Palestinians be assured that the United States, in coordination with the Quartet, will provide consistent and determined leadership for progress toward peace."  The leaders wrote U.S. leadership for peace "would evoke united support of Americans and people worldwide."  In the letter to Bush, religious leaders expressed support for the President's "careful response to the Palestinian democratic election results" and for the U.S "not acting precipitously to cut-off aid to the Palestinian people."  While urging the Bush Administration to work immediately "to get the Palestinian Authority and Israel to agree on a lasting ceasefire," they also support the President's "firm insistence that Hamas reject violence, recognize Israel and, consistent with the documented views of Palestinian and Israeli majorities, join the international consensus for a two-state solution…"

For the full text of the letter and the list of signers go to: http://www.cmep.org/Statements/2006_Interreligious_Appeal_Bush.htm .  For more information on the National Interreligious Leadership Initiative for Peace in the Middle East go to: www.walktheroadtopeace.org.  

“Nearly 400 American Rabbis Urge President to Preserve Prospects for Peace: 'Constructively Engage Moderate Palestinians and Continue Humanitarian Aid’”, March 6, 2006

“Nearly four hundred rabbis from across the country and the denominational spectrum of American Judaism sent a letter Friday to President Bush, urging him to constructively engage moderate Palestinians and continue humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people.  While the letter does not address specific legislation, it comes at a time when Congress is considering imposing severe sanctions and restrictions on the Palestinian Authority, via H.R. 4681, the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006.  These rabbis have united to promote the constructive engagement of moderate Palestinians and continued humanitarian aid as the best response to Hamas' electoral victory.  The letter challenges the perception that American Jews uniformly believe that the best way to protect Israel's security interests and combat Hamas' extremism is through the complete isolation of the Palestinian government and people.”

The full text and signers of the letter is available at: http://rabbisletter.btvshalom.org.  This letter was organized by Brit Tzedek v'Shalom, the Jewish Alliance for Justice and Peace.  For more information, go to: www.btvshalom.org. 

   3. New Debate on Aid to the Palestinians & the Current Situation in West Bank/Gaza

International aid has emerged as one of the thorniest issues in this post-Palestinian election climate.  A major concern is how to continue assistance to help the Palestinian people, while ensuring that it does not end up in the hands of terrorists.  Below are a number of news items regarding this new debate and the situation in the West Bank and Gaza, including Congressional testimony from USAID official, James Kunder, and Envoy James Wolfensohn’s recent letter to the Quartet.   

“Palestinian aid may be funnelled via World Bank”, Adam Entous, Reuters, March 6, 2006

“Israel and donor nations are discussing a proposal to funnel most international aid to the Palestinians through the World Bank, in a bid to keep funds from a Hamas-led government, Israeli and Western diplomats said on Monday…”

http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/L06577187.htm

“Testimony of James R. Kunder, Assistant Administrator for Asia and Near East

U.S. Agency for International Development before the House International Relations Committee”, March 2, 2006

“Mr. Chairman, thank you for the opportunity to testify on the humanitarian and economic situation in the West Bank and Gaza, as well as aspects of the U.S. assistance program…Through four years of the intifada, Palestinians have faced considerable hardships, including a decline in employment opportunities and disposable income, and a decline in the overall quality of life….The results of the parliamentary elections will undoubtedly have implications for U.S. foreign policy and for the U.S assistance program to the Palestinian people…In order to ensure that no U.S. government resources fall into terrorist hands, USAID has developed an extensive system of safeguards, monitoring, and evaluation to make sure the aid program in the West Bank and Gaza is completely transparent and accountable…The scope of U.S. assistance is quite extensive with a wide range of programs that address basic human needs, engage moderate elements in society, defuse inter-ethnic and interreligious tensions, support private sector revitalization, and build basic infrastructure. In our view, U.S. assistance still has an important role to play in the West Bank and Gaza to meet basic needs, to mitigate suffering through humanitarian and other assistance, and to maintain engagement with moderate elements. USAID can continue its work with non-governmental and international organizations so that more Palestinian families have access not only to basic food, clean water and healthcare, but also to employment and income generation opportunities and to assistance that promotes moderate views and progress towards the objectives of the Road Map…”

http://wwwc.house.gov/international_relations/109/kun030206.pdf

(For additional information go to: “White House Extends Palestinian Aid Review”, Associated Press, Barry Schweid, March 1, 2006: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060301/ap_on_go_pr_wh/us_mideast)

“Palestinians on Financial Brink, Envoy Warns”, Scott Wilson, The Washington Post, March 1, 2006

“A special Middle East envoy, James D. Wolfensohn, has warned international donors that the Palestinian Authority could collapse within two weeks unless fresh funding can be found to pay salaries, clear overdue energy bills and sustain government services financed largely by foreign aid….Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas's secular Fatah movement currently runs the government. But that will change in a few weeks when Hamas, designated a terrorist organization by the United States and the E.U., forms the next cabinet. Hamas scored an unexpected victory in parliamentary elections Jan. 25…‘If we do not want to see rising tension leading to violence and chaos -- particularly just before the Israeli election -- we will have to develop urgently a convincing strategy addressing the PA's financial and developmental needs, not only in the short-term of the next few weeks but also in a longer time frame,’ Wolfensohn wrote in the letter [sent on Saturday to senior diplomats from the group of peace interlocutors known as the quartet -- Russia, the United States, the European Union and the United Nations].…‘If we don't get this right, I am afraid past investment in the Palestinian development will be lost, a Palestinian economy will not be sustainable, the Palestinian people will live off humanitarian handouts, and security for both Palestinians and Israelis will be in greater jeopardy than it has been for years,’ Wolfensohn wrote…”   

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/02/27/AR2006022700514.html

Full text of Mr. Wolfensohn’s letter to the members of the Quartet: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/02/28/AR2006022800278.html

“Humanitarian Update: Special Focus: Emerging humanitarian risks in the oPt: The Impact of Cutting Aid on Essential Services and Poverty”, OCHA (Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs), February 28, 2006

A variety of UN agencies, including UNICEF, OCHA, the World Food Program and the World Health Organization recently undertook an analysis of the humanitarian situation in the West Bank and Gaza and examined the impact of aid cuts as a result of the Hamas victory in the Palestinian elections.  To read the report, go to: http://www.humanitarianinfo.org/opt/docs/UN/OCHA/ochaHU0106_En.pdf. 

“Aid Agencies call upon donor governments to continue providing aid to the Palestinian people”, AIDA, February 14, 2006

“While the international community reacts to the recent Palestinian Legislative Council elections, international aid agencies stress that the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian territories remains grave, and may even deteriorate further if current and additional humanitarian and development activities are jeopardized.  Currently, 60% of the population live under the poverty line. The humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people and their children have not changed as a result of recent political developments.  International development and humanitarian aid agencies reiterate their commitment to helping to meet the needs of the Palestinian people, and strongly urge the international community and donor governments to continue providing critical assistance.

Academy for Educational Development; AFSC/Quaker Service's; AM Qattan Foundation; Caritas Jerusalem; COOPI; CISS - Cooperazione Internazionale Sud -Sud; Diakonia; Enfants du Monde - Droits de l'Homme; Enfants Réfugiés du Monde; Handicap International; International Orthodox Christian Charities-Jerusalem; International Christian Committee-ICC; Japan International Volunteer Center-JVC; Kvinna till Kvinna Jerusalem; The Lutheran World Federation-LWF; Medecins Du Monde-France; Middle East Aid and HAGAR Programs; Medico International; Mennonite Central Committee; Mercy Corps; Norwegian Church Aid; Oxfam GB; Oxfam International; Oxfam-Québec; Oxfam Solidarity Belgium; Save the Children Sweden; Save the Children UK; The Swedish Organization for Individual Relief-SOIR; Solidaridad Internacional; Terre des Hommes Foundation; and World Vision.
 

   4. Jerusalem News

• New RAND Report on Palestinian State and Security Includes Chapter on Jerusalem

“Building a Successful Palestinian State: Security,” Robert E. Hunter and Seth G. Jones RAND Corporation, January 31, 2006

The study examines “key external security issues that must be met for there to be a successful independent Palestinian state following a peace agreement with Israel”.  Chapter Seven is entitled, “Special Security Issues Regarding Jerusalem.”  Its main findings regarding Jerusalem as laid out in the report’s press release are: “The status of Jerusalem remains an issue for the Palestinians and Israelis to decide in a peace agreement. The analysis shows that there is no security impediment to Jerusalem being the capital for both Israel and Palestine. There are a number of possible ways for jurisdiction and security responsibilities in East Jerusalem to be shared by the two sides. From a security perspective, there could be international aspects, especially in regard to the Temple Mount (known as the Haram al-Sharif to Muslims), with either mixed Israeli-Palestinian control or participation of outsiders.” 

To read the report in its entirety, go to: http://www.rand.org/pubs/monographs/MG146.2/

·         New Shifts in Israeli Debate about Jerusalem

“No more talk of a unified Jerusalem”, Nadav Shragai, Ha’aretz, March 7, 2006

”The moment the ‘wisdom of compromise’ becomes preferable to ‘the yearning,’ as acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert described, will apparently come after the elections. When Olmert talked about it, he may have been referring only to the areas of Judea and Samaria, but in Jerusalem as well, the politicians, primarily in Kadima and the Labor Party, are already preparing for a redivision. The reason they will offer the Israeli public will be demographic. Although in Jerusalem the numerical ratio between Jews and Arabs still favors Jews (66 percent vs. 34 percent), Labor and Kadima are planning to present primarily what was and what will be: what was in 1967 after the war - 74 percent Jews and 26 percent Arabs and what may perhaps be in another 14 years (in 2020) according to the accepted demographic forecast - a reduction of the Jewish majority to just 56 percent. The plans have still not been disclosed fully to the public, but the terminology has already changed. Ehud Olmert and Amir Peretz, as well as Shaul Mofaz and Benjamin Ben-Eliezer, no longer talk of a unified Jerusalem that will never be divided…”  http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/690895.html

(Also see: “The holy basin: sovereignty, autonomy, internationalization or division?”, Nadav Shragai, Ha’aretz, March 8, 2006: http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/691455.html) 

For more information contact Julie Schumacher Cohen, CMEP’s Legislative Assistant at 202-543-1222 or at Julie@cmep.org.