Ami Ayalon

This book gives me hope. Mr. Ayalon believes deeply in the right of Israel to exist and thrive. He also believes that the Palestinians have a right to homeland where they can live in accordance with their culture, traditions and beliefs. He argues, persuasively, that fighting terrorists will not bring an end to terror. Occupying Palestinian territory and humiliating Palestnians will not bring peace. Insisting on a right to return to a specific place is not feasible. Maintaining all the Jewish settlements beyond the 1967 borders is not feasible. Peace will only come once Israelis and Palestinians are able to move beyond the past and look to the future.

In refining his views over his life time, the author meets with and talks to people who don't agree with him, both Jews and Muslims. He worked in Israeli security at senior levels, and was a Cabinet member in the Knesset. Unfortunately politicians and senior officials rarely agree with him. What gives me hope is the number of regular citizens, both Jewish and non-Jewish, who do.… (mais)