By democratically electing Ariel Sharon — the leader of the Likud Party — as prime minister with 62.5 percent of the vote, the Israeli people have unequivocally spoken.
Disheartened by months of tensions and violence, and losing hope that Israel’s far-reaching compromises would ever be enough to satisfy the Palestinians’ demands, Israelis overwhelmingly voted in favor of an approach combining the continuous pursuit of peace and a re-evaluation of their country’s place in the Middle East.
Though resolute to find a permanent solution to the conflict, Israel will never compromise on its very existence and future.
No one should misread the result as an Israeli weariness or exhaustion with either the peace process or with 50 years of continued battle for security and acceptance in the region. Recent polls unmistakably showed that a wide majority of Israelis, doves and hawks alike, support the peace efforts and the tough sacrifices necessary to reach a final agreement.
This week’s vote is not a repudiation of Israel’s endeavors for peace. But if Israelis can and will take risks to achieve their goals, it will not be at the expense of the country’s security and viability.
That Israel’s national interests be appropriately safeguarded has always been at the core of the bonds unifying the world Jewish communities and the state of Israel. In that respect, the American Jewish community’s dedication, support and commitment to Israel stand as an example of continuity and strength.
No one should question the force of the ties that unite us. No one can drive a wedge between the two major centers of Jewish life that Israel and North America represent.
Sharing similar core values of democracy and freedom, Israelis and Americans have always enjoyed a robust and lasting relationship. In Ariel Sharon, the United States will find a leader committed to strengthening the historic American — Israel friendship and further enhancing the military and economic cooperation between the two countries. It will also find a man resolved to advance the cause of peace in the Middle East.
The new prime minister-elect has made it clear that he will immediately engage in negotiations with the Palestinians but that no talks will be held under fire or under the threat of violence.
The Palestinian should seize this new opportunity to resume talks and reach an agreement acceptable to both parties. The time is now ripe to put a halt to hostile rhetoric, engage in real efforts to end violence, and start educating the Palestinian public opinion about peace and coexistence.
Much progress has been made in recent years of negotiation; Israelis and Palestinians have learnt to know each other better and understand that violence and military confrontation serves absolutely no good.
The election of Ariel Sharon now stands as a renewed chance to demonstrate that the people of the region can draw the lessons of the achievements of the past years. Not only do Sharon and Israel deserve the chance, but the Middle East also needs it.