“Oslo was based on three incorrect assumptions,” according to Hotovely. “The first assumption is that the conflict is about territory. The second assumption is that Arabs and Jews should not live together, and that segregation and separate states can create peaceful existence. The third assumption was that the conflict was about 1967.
“[Prime Minister Ariel] Sharon proposed segregation, with the unilateral disengagement from Gaza. The result was radicalism. Hamas took over. Gaza didn’t become Singapore like many hoped it would. Instead, rockets started falling on Sderot.”
As to whether the current peace talks will yield results, Hotovely is certain they won’t.
“I’m sure Bibi Netanyahu has goodwill, but the talks will fail. The reason is because the conflict is not about [Israeli territorial expansion in] 1967, it is about Israel’s independence in 1948,” Hotovely said.
The conflict is not about territory. The conflict is religious. It may be difficult for liberals to realize that the conflict may not have a logical solution.”
“We’ve been there, we’ve done that. We’ve tried it. It failed. We need to try something else,” she said.
(JNS)