Israel Matzav

Please, NO

Alon Ben Meir argues that former Congressman Bob Wexler (D-Fl) should be made Middle East Special Envoy .

TO BEGIN with, Wexler enjoys the confidence of President Barack Obama, as the two worked closely throughout Obama’s campaign for the presidency. Moreover, Wexler and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton respect each other and appreciate the strength that each enjoys. Together, they could form a formidable team, particularly because Wexler appreciates the importance of what Clinton brings to the table and the importance of her positive standing in the eyes of both Israelis and Palestinians, contrary to George Mitchell and Dennis Ross, who are now tainted.

Wexler could bring new dynamism to the negotiations. He is creative, forthright and would not fall for the old political narratives that have stifled negotiations in the past – for example: how to deal with Israel’s real security concerns, or how to mitigate the Palestinians’ position on the right of return. His outspokenness and candor will serve his mission specifically because the conflict has been overshadowed by misperception and selfrighteousness. Wexler will be able to sort out the real and the misconceived, and disabuse both sides of the notion that the other side does not want to or cannot deliver peace. If he is given a clear mandate to advance ideas of his own, and with the support of and regular input by Clinton, Wexler stands a much better chance of achieving what has eluded his predecessors.

Wexler would likely welcome the opportunity not only because he wants to serve his president, but also because he believes that peace is in the best interest of both the US and Israel, and that the time is now.

There is deep mutual trust between Obama and Wexler, and although Wexler would oblige the president and gladly assume any mission he is assigned, he has a special affinity for Israel and compassion for the Palestinians, and would leave no stone unturned to achieve peace that ensures Israel’s security and dignity and independence for the Palestinians.

Unlike Mitchell, Wexler is far more in tune with the American Jewish community. For obvious reasons, American Jews generally support the policies of the Israeli government, and refrain from publicly criticizing Israel, preferring to iron out their differences quietly. As a leader who fully appreciates the importance of this relationship, Wexler will be able to use his in-depth knowledge of all sides – American Jews, Congress and Israel – to engender a cohesive approach to which they can comfortably subscribe.

I didn't like Mitchell from Day One, but this would be a disaster. Wexler has NO experience in peacemaking, is not well-liked here, and would probably spend his time bending over backward so that he is not seen as pro-Israel. Overall, a poor choice.

But if Wexler asked to be considered for this post, that's a good sign. Wexler left Congress about a year ago to head up a think tank run by J Street. If he's thinking of leaving here already, that could mean that the think tank, or maybe J Street itself, is falling apart. And that would be wonderful news.

Labels: George Mitchell, J Street, Robert Wexler, Special Middle East Envoy

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 10:51 PM