| The issue is not recognition of the sociological fact that Israel has "Jews and others". Israel demands recognition of its constitutional definition as "State of the Jewish people". Thus, it claims constitutional priority for one ethnic group, and constitutional inferiority for others. This demand is inconsistent with the requirements of democracy. So, Abbas should not fool around. He should say: "We are in negotiations with a state that defines itself contrary to modern democratic standards. Israel must comply with democracy, and recognize the right of return of the refugees, and abolish all forms of racist discrimination against non-Jews." Only a forthright, principled position has any chance of success. Or, at least, to get the attention of enlightened public opinion in Israel and elsewhere. Unfortunately, I have no confidence that Mahmoud Abbas is capable of asserting a principled position based on democracy, but that is part of the tragedy of the people of Palestine. |
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