Obama Administration - Israelis and the Palestinians - Essay Example

 Israelis believe that a solution can be found for an independent Palestinian nation to coexist in peace and harmony with Israel (PEW Research). Conversely, Palestinians assert that this is impossible. They argue that the only way to attain statehood is through violent attacks rather than nonviolent negotiations. Israelis are more likely to rate the Obama administration positively by stating that its policies are fair (PEW Research). The Palestinians on the other hand rate the administration negatively as they claim that it favours Israel. This among others is the major issue facing the peace process in the region as a whole.

The first issue involved in the process is concerning territory, settlement and borders. This has remained highly contentious on the Palestinian side. Israel is called upon to state the extent of its territory that is in Gaza, the West Bank and the Dead Sea waters (Muasher and Djerejian). Following this transfer territory locations identified by both sides should be established. Finally, proposals should be drawn on both sides to ensure that the swap lands are equal in size and value (Muasher and Djerejian). The question of Jerusalem should be postponed until the final stages of the process as it is controversial and complex (Ibrahim). This issue is highly sensitive and the Obama administration should approach it with caution to ensure successful completion of the process.

The second issue affecting the peacekeeping process is security. There has been constant fighting between the two sides and this has led to the loss of lives, destruction of property and poor rates of economic growth and development (PEW Research). First, it is of great importance to promoting Palestine’s internal security abilities. It is imperative to ascertain that state authority is in power rather than militia groups. Again, Israel should get assurance on their security concerns. Security is the major concern between the two sides and the Obama administration should employ peaceful means to restore peace and calm in the region. The third issue facing the process is economic development. It is important to note that ensuring the economic stability of Palestine will be a basis for finding a peaceful solution to the ancient feud between the two sides.

The fourth issue facing the process is that relating to prisoners and refugees. There are numerous refugees particularly those living in hazardous conditions. This has created attention the world over and amongst humanitarian bodies. It is therefore important to relocate them to safe locations to enhance the smooth running of the process. Prisoners are a key issue on the Palestinian side. Releasing prisoners would be a huge step in aiding the peace process. In a nutshell, the core issues are to establish security in Israel and sovereignty in Palestine (Cohen, John and Yellin).

The US is coming up with measures to ensure economic stability in the region. In a recent delegation by the Secretary of State Kerry, it was revealed that the US was working with core companies such as Coca- Cola, GE and Cisco to invest in Palestine as a move to boost economic growth and development (Ibrahim). Additionally, the 1994 Paris Protocol should be renegotiated to draw the line between relations of the two independent states (Muasher and Djerejian). This is by agreeing to common approaches of sharing resources and facilitating a tax and customs system that can be managed efficiently by West Bank.

Concerning the security problem in Israel, Obama sent the Supreme Commander of the NATO forces, General John Allen to discuss the security requirements necessary to deal with the concern (Ibrahim). From the most recent delegation, it is clear that security is the most important issue for Israel followed by economic stability for Palestine. These factors will play a pivotal role in matters regarding the demarcation of borders between the two countries. Refugees should be resettled in safe regions where they can access basic needs and facilities (Muasher and Djerejian). On the other hand, all prisoners should be freed to enhance peaceful negotiations and effective running of the peace process.

 The issue concerning borders and territory is highly divisive and has been the major cause of war on both sides. Israel should reach an agreement on their territory as outlined by the 1967 lines (Muasher and Djerejian). This should be followed by a land swap between Israel and Palestine based on equality in size and value. Regarding Jerusalem, it is mandatory to realize that two states must have different capitals on the basis of the 1967 agreement (Muasher and Djerejian). This means that Jewish neighborhoods will be part of Israel and there should be acceptance on both sides. A committee should be instituted to manage the city by paying special attention to the holy sites. Read More