Yes; but nevertheless

Submitted by John W. McGinley (United States), Jul 1, 2003 at 12:19

Professor Pipes' analysis is, as always, exact and perceptive. And in the abstract he makes a good point. And even if he understands that what he says here is not the whole point concerning what's going on, making the point in the public media is necessary and no-one is better at this than Pipes.

Neverthess, peace, if it is going to come at all, can and must come about while Sharon is in power. Only he has the credibility to guide Israel (and, paradox noted, the Palestinians themselves) in the direction of a true peace.

And please note that the actions of President Bush have always been more realistic than some of his public utterances. He is after all the captain of a deeply divided Administration. It's a tough balancing act, yet he needs this spectrum in order to achieve his credibility with the American people.

Notice also that Sharon himself has not been critical of the cajoling of Israel which is going on. He understands that if the Palestinians blow this opportunity, Bush will fully support him in a return to the kind of plan which will crush the terrorist threat. Really crush it.

The really great danger is that Sharon will die before it is clear whether this opportunity is a real one or just another sham. The greatest danger for Israel is that he will die before he captains the Israeli ship of state to a genuine peace.

Think of Barak; think of Rabin and Peres; think even of Netanyahu. All these types would be disasters. Prayer is called for.

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