The virtually nonexistent peace process has been stalled and opposed by domestic factions in both Israel and Palestinian society, creating a cycle of apathy that has not been broken for a long time. Both Israeli and Palestinians have blamed each other for the delay in resuming talks, both citing the other sides intransigence in rejecting preconditions and good faith efforts, such as halting settlement activity.
Well, a summit in Italy between Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli President Shimon Peres could take place soon, circumventing right-wing Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu whose commitment to the peace process has been questioned.
However, the specter of peace talks has not quelled domestic opposition, particularly among Palestinians, echoing a concern from Israelis that they have no legitimate partner for peace.
Predictably, Hamas attempted to downplay potential talks, saying Abbas has sold “illusions” to the Palestinian people and calling for his ouster.
But, Abbas is also facing opposition from his own party on the resumption of talks. Long-time Palestinian negotiator Muhammed Dahlan said the residents of the territories are fed up with Israeli actions that continue to undermine peace efforts. He said:
“There is no benefit from either direct or indirect negotiations with the Israeli government as it continues settlement construction and attacks the holy sites of Palestine.”
Even though vocal, direct intra-party opposition to Abbas is less common, this jaded attitude has permeated Israeli and Palestinian circles for quite some time. On some level, it’s easier to reject the notion of a peace process, accept the status quo as permanent, and simply move on with other daily issues- attempting to forge a lasting peace may simply not be worth the effort.
This attitude is problematic in two ways: it’s impact and it’s solution.
The lack of domestic enthusiasm for the peace process does not pressure policy makers to enter negotiations, thereby continuing the cycle of hostility and hatred on both sides. And, to solve this problem, the population must see legitimate progress in peace talks, which is not going to happen until domestic pressure intensifies.
There’s the cycle of violence in the peace process. But there’s also the cycle of ambivalence.
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