OPINION:
While the acceptance by the United Arab Emirates of diplomatic relations with Israel is not the final deal hoped for by the U.S. and President Trump, it is a welcome beginning (“Telephone calls between UAE, Israel ring for the first time,” Web, Aug. 16). Although many may believe that the driving force behind the UAE’s refusal thus far to engage with Israel has been fear of an aggressive, terrorist-supporting Iran, a telling reason could be final disillusionment with the Palestinian Authority.
From its very inception, the PA has refused to accept the presence of Israel and has conducted an agenda which demands the destruction of the Jewish state, and the creation in its place of yet another Arab nation, one stretching from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea.
Many opportunities have been offered to leaders of the PA to make peace with Israel without the PA offering to discuss the issue. The patience of the Arab supporters of the PA has been exhausted now. Hopefully more recognitions of Israel wil follow from the Arab world.
Currently peace may be elusive but at least the understanding between Israel and the UAE is a welcome start.
NELSON MARANS
New York
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