Netanyahu On the Move

Image from The Times of London

Peace in the Middle East? It may not be far off.

According to the BBC American president Barack Obama wants to have a deal by the time the United Nations meet in September.

For this he sent envoy George Mitchell to London this week to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

But even if they reach a deal, will that peace be sustainable?

We’re tracking perspectives on that question and Netanyahu’s tour of Europe from France 24, Al Jazeera English, The Guardian newspaper, the Jerusalem Post, and Der Spiegel.

We begin with France 24, who suggests the talks between the U.S. and Israel have been bolstered by a common enemy.

“What we’re hearing is that Israel has agreed to a partial freeze on new settlement construction in the West Bank. In return, the U.S. will take a much tougher line against Iran.”

Al Jazeera English however, talks to Palestinian Legislative Committee Chairman Abdullah Abdullah, who is looking for more.

“Up to this moment, Israel is appearing as if it is a private state: it is not controlled by international law, it is not controlled by the international United Nations resolution, and even that it is not subject to mounting International pressure against settlement activities.

Britain’s The Guardian newspaper looks at what could be influencing Netanyahu- pressure at home.

“There are many people in his coalition who are firmly committed to the whole settlement enterprise…So if he was to announce an immediate halt to all settlement activities or to start to take down any of the settlements, he would certainly face political difficulties.”

This does appear to be the climate in Jerusalem, where columnists for the Jerusalem Post are beginning to lose patience with President Obama’s seemingly lenient attitude towards Palestine.

“While continuing to avoid any initiative which could irritate the Arabs, the US is maintaining its heavy-handed approach toward its erstwhile ally, Israel… Netanyahu would be unwise to capitulate to Obama's demands.”

After visiting London on Wednesday, Netanyahu is scheduled to move on to Germany to meet with Chancellor Angela Merkel, whom Der Spiegel says has emerged as a surprising ally.

“In Jerusalem, Germany is now considered Israel's staunchest supporter, while the United States, which sends billions in aid to Israel, is currently its most uncomfortable ally.”

Can the Israelis and Palestinians reach an agreement in the near future? What concessions are needed on both sides for a peace to last?