Batir Wardam Blog: International Crises Group: Only Political Solutions

The very well known strategic resaerch center "International Crises Group" has recently publsihed an analytical report on the twin agreesion by Israel on Lebanon/Palestine. The reports concludes taht only political measures can resolve the problem.

Here is a summary of the conclusions

Israel/Palestine/Lebanon: Climbing Out of the Abyss

A diplomatic and political approach is needed to defuse the twin crises in Lebanon and Palestine, including immediate ceasefires on both fronts and steps to restore stability and re-launch a comprehensive peace process, or matters could become far worse. Resolution of the Palestinian crisis should involve allowing the elected government to govern in exchange for a cessation of hostilities. Israel’s pursuit of a knockout against Hizbollah is unrealistic and counterproductive, risking pushing Lebanon to breaking point. Cessation of hostilities should be followed by a prisoner exchange and, if agreed by all parties, dispatch of a UN-authorised international force charged with verifying ceasefire adherence. Sustainable peace requires continued EU and UN engagement with Hamas and Hizbollah and renewed U.S. engagement with Syria and Iran. The key to resolving both crises is reinvigorating the Israeli-Arab peace processes.

The full report can be accessed here:

http://www.crisisgroup.org/home/index.cfm?l=1&id=4282