Just read this post by Liza Rosenberg -
The Little Ass that Could
Eloquent as always, Liza expresses a common view in Israel these days: that the entire peace initiative vis-a-vis the Syrians is nothing more than a media spin produced by Olmert to save his seat -
Under normal circumstances, I would probably be guardedly thrilled at such a prospect as peace with Syria. These days, however, the circumstances are anything but normal. It can hardly be coincidental that as more and more information regarding Olmert’s legal troubles are made public, we are suddenly presented with Olmert the “peace maker”. And I don’t buy it.
Now, call me naive (join the club, you won’t be the only one!), but I don’t think that the peace talks with Syria are just a media spin, or a political ass-saving rouse. Don’t get me wrong – a huge fan of Olmert I am not (I don’t think the man has too many “fans”), but I somehow find it hard to believe that even he would go through all of this, involving Turkey and Syria and upsetting the US, just because he has to deal with yet another corruption scandal.
Maybe it’s my background, having been within the system and witnessed the decision-making process, that makes me trust it more. These decisions aren’t made by a single person. The staff of numerous Government Ministries, the Military, MOD and other security agencies, all have their input.
Yes, the Prime Minister makes the final decision, but it would cause an uproar if he were to go against advice given to him by “the system”. That system is comprised of mostly good people, capable intelligent ones who can anlyse intelligence and come up with conclusions and plans. Are they always right? of course not, but it does provide some amount of immunity from gross mistakes.
I am not trying to write an essay in defense of the Israeli decision making process. I am also critical of it, to a great extent. My point is, this isn’t Olmert’s solo show, and thus I find it hard to believe that the current Peace Talks with Syria are nothing but a charade. That isn’t to say that they will be successful, only that I happen to think that they’re for real and stand a real chance. I really hope that the disillusioned Israeli left-wing will find the inner strength to support Olmert (yes, support Olmert, I did type that!) in this effort. You know what, if this also happens to save his political ass, I really don’t care, it’s a small price to pay for peace!
on May 26th, 2008 at 1:32 pm
Interesting point of view. Personally, I am skeptical that the Syrian regime is sincere. They were building a nuclear power plant with the help of the North Koreans (and maybe still are). I wouldn’t keep my hopes – the Syrians know what they want and they are unlikely to budge.
On a side note, congrats on the new domain name and blog. I too, recently moved to WordPress and I find the myriad of options and plug-ins quite exciting.
Jad Aouns last blog post..My Name Follows Me Around
on May 27th, 2008 at 5:22 am
I’m inclined to agree with Jad about the Syrian government. As skeptical as I am about Olmert, I’m equally skeptical of Assad. While I don’t expect him to be publicly embracing Olmert any time soon, I would feel slightly more reassured if he hadn’t sent people to publicly embrace the Iranians so soon after the announcement. I don’t trust the motives of either leader, and have a feeling that their number one priorities have nothing to do with actual peace. I would be thrilled to be proven wrong, though, so let’s see what happens.
Oh, and I also agree with Jad about WordPress! For the most part, I’m enjoying it immensely, having switched from Blogger several months ago.
Liza Rs last blog post..The Little Ass that Could
on May 27th, 2008 at 5:32 am
Well, if these are bogus efforts, both leaders are sure going to a great length with them. Frankly, I find it very hard to assess the Syrian intentions. I’ve read mixed impressions by senior intelligence officers over the years. Had I been the leader of Syria, I know what I would have done to secure the future of my country. I guess what both of you, Jad and Liza, are saying is that Assad may be interested in things other than the best future for Syria.
Time will tell, like you said. I just hope that we give this initiative a real chance, including good public support for Olmert’s moves here in Israel. I am willing to swallow a bunch of frogs to give this peace initiative a chance.