Why Israel needs a Palestinian state

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, speaking at the McCain Institute Wednesday, tried to remain diplomatic about his opinions versus the policies of the current Israeli government. It was obvious however, that he held divergent views on the future of Israel.

Olmert’s opposition to the occupation of the Palestinian Territories is the basis of his label as “centrist” or “leftist” in Israeli politics. This surprised Olmert, who considered himself right wing at the beginning of his career.  He fears that occupation of Palestinian territories has become the  issue that determines left-wing or right-wing. This is one sign of increased polarization within Israeli politics. “I disagree with the occupation of the territories,” Olmert explained, “but I am not a socialist.”

The rest of the discussion was centered on leadership. Olmert explained how his belief regarding the territories came from his ten years as mayor of Jerusalem, when he built 100 Arab schools.  But that did nothing to build sustainable peace.  The Palestinians want their own state.  The face of Israel must change if it is to remain both Jewish and democratic. Morbidly, Olmert explained that to save the life of a person, sometimes you have to cut off a part of the body. To save the Jewish and democratic character of Israel, it must cut off the Palestinian territories. Giving up the dream of greater Israel is heartbreaking. But stubbornly holding onto to that dream is a prescription for endless confrontation.

Olmert emphasized controversial decision making as a marker of great leadership. To go against cherished beliefs for the good of the people shows courage and strength. He praised Menachem Begin for pulling out of the Sinai, a move contrary to his previously stated intentions. Yitzhak Rabin had the political will to impose the Oslo Accords in the name of peace and paid for it with his life. Olmert praised Ariel Sharon as well for his attempt, however thwarted, to pull out of the occupied territories. Hosni Mubarak even gained his respect for maintaining his promise of peace with Israeli despite Egyptian public opinion.

Olmert expressed pride in Israel’s democracy.  Freedom of speech and  freedom of religion would be flawless if they were extended to the territories. Israel has the strongest democracy in the region, yes, but this did not damped Olmert’s optimism for the Arab Spring.  The transitions may be tumultuous, but every leader understands that the force of the people is stronger than any force of government. Democracy is the only option for the Arab world.  If it is ignored or stifled, the leaders will face the same judgment as the autocrats who came before them.

Olmert concluded, saying that leadership is the ability to perceive a better future for your people while not obsessing about the past.  That’s why Israel needs a Palestinian state.