Gaza could be the next Singapore - opinion
By GERSHON BASKINPublished: AUGUST 17, 2022 20:30
Updated: AUGUST 17, 2022 20:31
PALESTINIAN WORKERS return to the Gaza Strip through the Erez Crossing at the end of their work day in Israel at the Erez Industrial Zone, 2004.
(photo credit: SHARON PERRY/FLASH90)
Let’s face reality, Hamas is here to stay – now is the time to set the course to engage with Hamas and to provide the means for its moderation and pragmatism to increase.
The more practical and pragmatic steps that can be taken without negotiations or direct contact for now, the stronger will be the interests on both sides not to disrupt the progress made. I do advise, as I have done for many years, that Israel and Hamas enter into direct secret back-channel talks first to resolve the issue of the four Israelis held captive in Gaza (two soldiers’ bodies and two living Israeli civilians) but to do that within the context of addressing a long-term ceasefire, easing the siege until it is gone, resolving the urgent needs for electricity and water in Gaza, and facilitating the possibilities for investment in Gaza.
I strongly encourage the regional partners – Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and others – to convene a conference with the participation of Hamas and Israel to make a plan for the security and economic development of Gaza. Let’s face reality, Hamas is here to stay – now is the time to set the course to engage with Hamas and to provide the means for its moderation and pragmatism to increase.
And lastly, with the engagement of the regional partners, elections for Palestine’s government – legislative council and president – should be conducted as soon as possible with an assurance from Hamas that it will accept the results regardless of the outcome, and a promise to Hamas that the regional states will also accept the outcome regardless of the results.
The writer, a political and social entrepreneur, has dedicated his life to Israel, and to peace between Israel and its neighbors. He is now directing The Holy Land Bond.
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-714946
