Beilin seemed confident that the two sides can return to the negotiating table before Clinton's term ends. He said that although both Palestinians and Israelis may believe they deserve more concessions, they must work together to find a middle ground that makes the region livable. But the bottom line is death and guns. For the current leaders even to discuss getting back together to hash out an agreement, the violence in the region must be toned down, if not halted entirely, experts said. The hope of a lasting accord is remote.
Chances are better, analysts said, for a continuation of the interim status agreed to at Oslo.
And although expectations are being downplayed, American Jews are holding out hope for some agreement in the short term. It may be a long shot, but it's the best chance we may see for a long time for a far-reaching deal. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced in any form without permission.