Long term vision and planning needed for long term peace

Submitted by Steve Silver (United States), May 27, 2005 at 23:50

The issue of the removal of the residents in Gaza is one topic I will not offer an opinion on, however the issue of the destruction of the buildings is one I will. Based upon two facts, arguments if you will, that show one point of view whereby leaving the buildings will give the Palestinians such a concrete victory, and symbolize other targeting of assets they feel are due them is true, albeit a sensational event the press and media will play up for a short period, and the other view that leaving these buildings is an act of godwill to allow the victory be an actualized one and not a defeated victory. Adding in the cost to Israel of $20,000,000 according to one article (which seems quite high but could be cose to acurate given costs of demolition), it is without doubt the wiser choice to leave the buildings, as the long term bridge will heal the severe hatreds. Plus Israel could use the $20,000,000 to beef up their arsenal which is more important than saving face in the long run if this turns to fuel more violence.

This is a decision that needs to be debated and reached an accord with.
My points are to be taken seriously, as they represent not only a gesture of goodwill but wi turn one gesture into a futile act otherwise.

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