Harris Letter in IHT

Palestinian turmoil By David A. Harris January 21, 2006 Palestinian turmoil In "Palestinians in disarray" (editorial, Jan. 18), you correctly reference "an alarming picture of a bankrupt, powerless and divided Palestinian Authority." Indeed, this situation is a tragedy for Palestinians and Israelis alike. It only invites Palestinian extremist groups to fill the vacuum and, in doing so, diminishes still further prospects for peace. What the editorial fails to recognize, however, is that Israel has a profound stake in Palestinian social, political and economic development, but cannot do for the Palestinians what they are not willing to do for themselves. While you suggest that Israel is making a bad situation worse, the reality is that Israel is faced with the daily threat of missile attacks, terrorist groups that openly call for Israel's total destruction that operate in Gaza and the West Bank with impunity, and massive weapons smuggling into Gaza. What exactly is Israel supposed to do under the circumstances? Is it so difficult to grasp the essential point that Israel supports the road map and a two-state settlement, but continues to face the very real threat of violence and, no less, the absence of a credible partner with which to negotiate a lasting peace? David A. Harris, New York Executive Director American Jewish Committee

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