When he visited the Palestinian self-rule areas before signing the latest accord on Hebron, he insisted on visiting that city as a token of his support for Palestinian demands regarding the historic city. Similar, too, is the case of the former shadow foreign secretary, Gerald Kaufman. Despite his being a Jew, he is considered a staunch supporter of the Palestinian cause. In fact, some time ago, he wrote an article in the British Daily Mail newspaper attacking the hardline ideological stand of Netanyahu and criticizing the policies of the Netanyahu government. In all fairness, we are not yet able to judge the Jewish personalities occupying key positions in the new Clinton administration.
Wisdom does demand, of course, that they separate their religion from their political work.
They should be scrupulous in doing so as America is actively involved in the peace process and is playing an important role on both sides of the discussions. Such a role can only be effective and credible if the player is seen to be neutral by all concerned parties. Such a role must not be colored by any perceptions of double loyalties. The possibilities of these things are reason enough for the United States to move slowly, deliberately and with all consideration in the Middle East. If you would like to send us your thoughts on this article, please fill in the form below.