Barghouti to be released in exchange for 'proximity talks'?
'Bibi' is apparently going to reward Abu Bluff for agreeing to speak with him indirectly. "We are prepared to do many things to improve the quality of life in Judea and Samaria," said Netanyahu referring to the West Bank. "But we first expect some movement on the Palestinian side."Now, let's read between the lines. Abu Bluff expects a reward for coming to the table. And what's holding up the 'terrorists for Gilad' exchange is that (a) there are certain terrorists that Israel does not want to release, or does not want to release to Hamas, and (b) Israel must find a way to do the 'terrorists for Gilad' trade with Hamas without weakening Abu Bluff anymore. Releasing Marwan Barghouti to Abu Bluff in exchange for starting 'proximity talks' solves both those 'problems' for Israel, at least with respect to Barghouti.
"We are weighing releasing prisoners, but as you know, this is a sensitive issue in Israel because of the subject of [abducted Israel Defense Forces soldier] Gilad Shalit," the prime minister told the EU diplomats. "The matter depends on political movement from the Palestinian side."
Netanyahu did not specify whether the release of prisoners would take place in conjunction with indirect negotiations with Palestinians or as part of direct talks.
Netanyahu said that Israel and the Palestinians are very close to resuming "proximity talks," or indirect negotiations. "We are discussing the structure and the time-frame of the negotiations with the Americans," said Netanyahu, adding that he could not elaborate.
A year ago, Abu Bluff might have felt threatened by having Barghouti released. But now that he has
What could go wrong?
posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 5:06 PM
2 Comments:
Its hard to see what "proximity" talks would lead to. And they're pointless as long as the Palestinians refuse to compromise. The last thing on earth Israel should be doing is rewarding Abu Bluff for his obduracy.
What could go wrong indeed
As a Conservative pundit told me a couple of years ago, "Netanyahu is no different than Peres."
MOSHIACH NOW, PLEASE!!!
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