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Settlements stymie peace
The Saturday, June 6, Opinion page had an interesting juxtaposition of comments about Israeli settlements. Clay Bennett’s cartoon, “Common Ground,” recognized the conflict about Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The article by Charles Krauthammer, which appeared below the cartoon, chose provocative language and ridiculous examples to criticize President Obama for asking Israel to halt a major impediment to peace: settlement expansion.
Close to half a million Jews live in 120 settlements on West Bank land seized by Israel in 1967. Under international law the settlements are illegal. Israel has agreed to freeze settlement activity at various points in the peace process but has never respected the pledge.
It is time to work toward a two-state solution with a viable Palestinian state living in peace alongside a secure Israel and sharing Jerusalem as the capital. The settlements are a major stumbling block. Mr. Krauthammer states that by questioning the settlements, President Obama is reinforcing a “myth” that Palestinian misery and statelessness are Israel’s fault. Mr. Krauthammer is blaming the victim. If peace is the goal, justice for all must be the new policy.
Shirley Carlton
Spokane