Insights

Gershon Baskin could easily propose a list of “if, then” statements, but he thinks that it is best left in the hands of the Russian conveners, and Netanyahu and Abbas, of course. If the meeting of the leaders does take place in Russia, or anywhere else, it is absolutely essential that it is not wasted solely for a photo-op, or worse – to prove, once again, that the other side does not want peace. Concrete steps with concrete outcomes must be the result of such a meeting.

Gershon Baskin thinks that the task of getting Netanyahu and Abbas to agree to anything is daunting, yet with very limited expectations, it might actually be possible to get the parties talking once again.

Gershon Baskin believes that cooperation builds understanding and peace – no peace was ever made by not talking.

Gershon Baskin believes that the security apparatus, economic agreements, mechanism for cooperation across the borders – all aspects of the relations between Israel and a Palestine-Jordan confederation could be planned and negotiated in advance and the end result would be a much more secure peace for all.

Gershon Baskin senses that over the past months some of our politicians and military folk have been speaking about the need to confront the economic and environmental disaster facing nearly two million people in Gaza.

Gershon Baskin believes that if there is one thing clear as day, it is that the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank want to have their say on their leadership in a democratic way.

Gershon Baskin believes that the Middle East conflict has no chance of ending without sitting down together and reaching agreements.

Gershon Baskin thinks that Netanyahu has taken the first step forward on the path toward true equality. Now he must be encouraged to continue to journey.

Gershon Baskin understands that Egypt wants to create a regional quartet, which includes renewing direct Israeli- Palestinian negotiations, with the assistance of Egypt, and the presence of Jordan at the table. This is essentially what Gershon has been speaking about for more than two years.

Gershon Baskin thinks that the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement is doing more harm to Palestine and Palestinian interests than a concerted, direct and strategic campaign to engage Israelis would.