The Arab-Israeli conflict is ripe for resolution

The Arab-Israeli conflict is ripe for resolution

06 Feb 2003

Do Israelis and Palestinians have anything to say to one another?

That was the question at issue in the debate which tackled what is perhaps the most intractable political dilemma of our times. The motion was phrased with a view to avoiding the familiar antagonism between Israelis and Palestinians. Rather, we wanted our experts to judge how long it will take for the conflict to be resolved. A Palestinian and Israeli were on each side to debate the issue.

Arguing in favour of the motion are Afif Safieh, Attorney Gilead Sher, Jonathan Freedland.

Afif Safieh states that a vote against the motion is a resignation to an unacceptable status quo whereas a vote for is a vote of optimism, courage and defiance that the conflict is resolvable.

Jonathan Freedland is optimistic that the conflict is ripe for revolution and underpinning his optimism is the favourable will of both the Palestinian and Israeli towards an agreement.

Gilead Sher argues that unilateral disengagement is the key to the two state vision and that bold action is required to simultaneously secure the futures of both parties.

Arguing against the motion are Professor Avi Shlaim, James Rubin, Professor Yezid Sayigh.

Avi Shlaim claims that while two of the three negotiating parties, the US and Israel, are not ready for the two state solution a settlement cannot be achieved.

James Rubin is in favour of the realistic not optimistic position; a permanent solution is unforeseeable because not one of the three negotiating parties is willing to take the necessary steps.

Yezid Sayigh asserts that a vote for the motion fails to recognise the failings of the Palestinian and Israeli leadership and the gloomy prospects for the conflict.

First vote: 290 For, 186 Against, 256 Undecided

Final vote: 184 For, 451 Against, 25 Undecided

Speakers for the motion

Gilead Sher

Former Israeli Bureau Chief and Policy Coordinator
Jonathan Freedland

Guardian columnist, author and broadcaster
Afif Safieh

Palestinian diplomat

Chair

Sir Michael Quinlan

Former Permanent Under-Secretary of State

Speakers against the motion

Professor Avi Shlaim

Professor of International Relations and Fellow of St Antony's College, Oxford
James Rubin

Journalist and political advisor
Yezid Sayigh

Academic and author; Professor of Middle East Studies, King’s College London