tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20813989.post8618143378272041559..comments2023-10-25T14:26:50.521+00:00Comments on Working Group on the Middle East Peace Process: MEPP Circulation responsenextcenturyfoundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01644848836042696917noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20813989.post-40363686211117734912007-02-22T20:24:00.000+00:002007-02-22T20:24:00.000+00:00I have often made it clear at NCF that I am intens...I have often made it clear at NCF that I am intensely aware of the horror that the occupation as a daily reality is. My cordial, in many cases warm contacts amongst the Palestinians (some of whose views are anathema to me, as mine are to them), for the purposes of finding solutions is often eye opening. For some it will never be good enough. But for most I have come to be known as a 'nice' Zionist. That is no mean feat, particularly since I feel no desire to join those amongst the Jews who are so loudly proclaiming their disgust for Israel. I love Israel, AND I respect this commentator's perspective. But I also know the history of the conflict as told by others. And I would look for an understanding of these other perspectives to this letter's very explicit rejection of my right to be there. My respect for the member's comments comes from something very simple, which I have come to see as a test on anybody who hovers around the MEPP. Most fail. My test: Is what you are proposing evidently motivated by a desire to move toward realistic peace? For example, those - Israelis and Palestinians - ensconsed in the International Relations department at Oxford don't stand a chance in hell. But people like the writer, however much their perspective may be difficult for me, do. So, thank you , dear correspondent. I don't agree, but clearly we could work together and find a formula to stop the children from dying. And I am more than happy to publicise your views.<BR/>In relation to the government that, as you point out, was democratically elected though, I must reiterate my earlier view. Read their statements. Comparatively over the last year, if you so desire. And tell me that Israel has anything to gain from working with them, Mecca or no Mecca, democratically elected or not. They do not mince their words. I'm sorry that you have to suffer under the occupation. But I wonder if you understand what it means to look at your government when I have never taken a bus in my homeland in my entire life.Davishttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03823148584136806676noreply@blogger.com