Finally, Israel and its neighbors must keep their communication avenues open and in working order. Miscommunication in negotiations often fosters anxiety and distrust. So, if direct communication with the Palestinians proves unworkable at times, bring in the United States as a mediator. President Clinton and his team now appear to have both parties' trust. Don't undervalue the critical nature of effective communication to a fair negotiation process.
Effective communication precedes almost all effective negotiated agreements.
Israel must keep these fundamental bases for peace in mind as it implements the Wye agreement and withdraws from substantial portions of the West Bank. Without them, at the least, the peace process will fail. The cabbie gave us a history lesson as he drove us around northern Israel that day. He described Israel's military strength and how it survived by fighting and winning the wars forced upon it. He told us about Israel's democracy and its challenges with the Palestinians.