The thing with the popular equation “land = security” is that it may be a nice ideal but it is wholly unrealistic and outdated, certainly in this region. It is not a matter of what we think the ideal situation is, but a matter of what the reality on the ground is. The reality is that this land we are disputing on will have to be divided in order to make any sort of progress, because both sides have a legitimate interest in it that has to be reckoned with. If we want to achieve peace and agreement both sides will have to compromise. To believe otherwise, I’m sorry to say, is to be in denial.

And that was the wisdom of Rabin – he faced the facts, he understood that the reality of having no choice but to take into account the other side’s wishes in order to achieve a solid agreement. As for the extent of the compromise and how much should be given up, well that’s another issue we can argue about, but it can’t be denied that a compromise will have to be made.

And if you want an example of how giving up land can work, how about the peace agreement with Egypt which holds well to this day? certainly it provided collaboration and cooperation between the sides in following years.

There is more in the equation than just land, it is such a complex situation with so many different changing factors, even down to symbolism.

I doubt Rabin could have stopped the onslaught that followed.

If anything he might have given away more land quicker than Sharon did.

And whenever Israel gives back land, Israel pays dearly for it; at least since 1980.

Before you can convince me of Rabin’s wisdom, and I don’t doubt the man’s sincerity and honour, you will have to show me how giving up land actually IMPROVES the situation, for either side or both.

(The intensity of my attitude towards Lebanon is directly proportional to Lebanese tolerance for people throwing rockets at me from their land. And I am not an Israeli, I was just a guest target during the war.)

I can’t go back to the apathy I still see among those surrounding me. Communication among the civilians, listening and understanding, is essential – I see it as the only path out of the mess we are in, and it is a big mess which is only on hold temporarily, it is not over yet.

Very well said my friend. This is the whole point of this open group blog. It’s worth noting that it also matters how we choose to communicate. With respect? With anger? With hatred towards the other person merely because of their nationality? With the willingness to listen and debate in a civil manner while appreciating those who oppose our opinions? When is communication truly helpful and constructive? We hope to answer that question by achieving valuable things through Mideast Youth, and I’m so glad that you’re taking part in our mission. The results will be outstanding if we keep our efforts up. We just need consistency and involvement.

Don’t be a stranger. Keep us updated on what’s going on, both in Israel and in your head.