The rate of settlement construction has almost quadrupled compared to the pace before the freeze ten months ago. The aggressive plans for expansion and new settlements show that Israel has no intention of slowing down. More than 600 new homes have begun construction in the West Bank since the end of the freeze on September 26th. Given that the Palestinian delegation, led by Pres. Abbas , has stated that settlement construction must halt before they would rejoin negotiations, one would think that PM Netanyahu would advise a somewhat restrained approach to new construction rather than the free-for-all we’re witnessing, at least to give the appearance of considering the Palestinian position.
The Obama administration has made staggering offers to Israel in an effort to stall or temporarily stop construction for a period of just 60 days. This unprecedented security package would include top-tier military armaments, satellite communications systems, and an uncompromising U.S. security blanket for Israel in the region. Not only is the administration acting in Israeli interest by attempting to help them establish a stable and peaceful relationship with the Palestinians, but are also trying to reward them by letting the U.S. help. Frankly Israel’s obstinance regarding the settlement issue is only hurting their position. In my opinion, their un-comprising attitude is a clear message that they are not ready for an agreement with the Palestinians at this time.
With little reason to hope for a solution through direct negotiations, Palestinian leaders are focusing on alternative means to establishing a Palestinian state. By circumventing talks with Israel, the Palestinians hope that appealing to the United Nations, the International Court of Justice, and the signatories of the Geneva Convention to oppose settlement construction and unanimously decide to establish the Palestinian state. As of now, the leaders are heavily lobbying the Obama administration to strongly endorse and propose such a move, but as of yet there has been no word from Washington. Although this solution is seemingly logical – letting a governing third party make some sort of decision if none can be reached internally – the likelihood of the U.S. turning on Israel is slim to none.
