Quote:
Originally Posted by richlevy
The IRA/Sinn Fein has demobilized and is part of the executive branch of Northern Ireland.
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How did George Mitchell do that? First he had to get all sides to talk. To recognize the other side had valid gripes. To appreciate that neither side really wanted conflict. IOW he had to attack and dispel the extremism of "We good; them evil".
Mitchell is trying to do same in the Middle East. But the one and only major roadblock, constantly obstructing all conversation and negotiation, is Netanyahu. So far, only Netanyahu has been the only a major obstruction. Reason why would be obvious. Netanyahu is Likud.
Likud remembers what happened to have peace with Egypt. Intends to do everything possible to never let that happen again. Why did Likud all but call for the assassination of Rabin - and get it? It's a rhetorical question that also explains why Mitchell – who could even create a Northern Ireland peace settlement – is only having constant problems with one Middle East party.
Likud will not admit that the West Bank is not theirs. Likud remembers what happened in the Sinai. A political agenda is more important than any settlement.