Two states only solution for Palestine, says writer

November 24, 2023 Edition

There needs to be a clear line drawn between Hamas and the Palestinian people. That said, there was no long-term solution among your thoroughly biased coverage. The only solution would seem to be two states, living side by side. Any other answer is dream world. This is one of the most complex issues in the world today, and will take time and goodwill on both sides. However, the Government of Israel seems to have adopted a firestorm approach which is not conducive to a settlement. In the short-term, there has to be a ceasefire.

Yours sincerely,

James K. Hiller,
St. John’s

Editor’s Note: James, thank you for taking the time to write. As for a long-term solution, the piece was very long as it was and we didn’t have space to go further. A two-state solution would be wonderful, if the Palestinians were only willing to accept Israel’s presence and share the region peaceably. However, if they were to use a new state as a launch pad for further attacks against Israel, then I can’t see it being in Israel’s interests to allow it. I think if you were to put yourself in the shoes of an Israeli, living in a region where every other state regards you as an enemy, and in the case of Hamas, are working to see you eradicated from the face of the earth, you would want to take strong steps to ensure your safety. Unfortunately, a ceasefire, would give Hamas time and space to regroup. I agree the Israeli settlers in the occupied areas are a serious problem and a detriment to peace, but given the history of the region and the unabated antipathy of Palestinians for the Jews, I can’t see the logic in Israel relinquishing control of the occupied territories anytime soon.