[Sephiroth]

Originally Posted by 1andrew1

Not recognising Palestine hasn't exactly done wonders for the 65,000 people killed in Gaza post 7/10, nor released any of the hostages nor prevented the atrocities of 7/10.

Maybe it is time to try another approach, especially as Netanyahu seems impervious to advice from the IDF and overtures from his allies.

I see your logic - but is it possible? In a year's time, when Netanyahu is up for election, he'll either have eliminated Hamas or the next generation will be standing in the wings (very likely given the even worse bad egg - Iran). That's how he hopes to retain power - through the gratitude and admiration of the people.

Israelis know that they are past the point of no return with the Palestinian people. Israel's behaviour toward the West Bank people has made certain of that.

So, whoever wins the next Israeli GE, the government will be stuck with the logical consequences of Netanyahu's actions.

Given the penetration of Israeli settlements in the West Bank - some 200,000 people. you can see whey it's the point beyond no return.

The best that Israel could then do in those circumstances, I suggest, is to woo the Palestinians into chucking their lot in with Israel, then annexing the West Bank. I would expect the USA to play a part, given the real estate opportunities. This would require a breakthrough in realism for the Palestinians especially if they can be convinced of several uplift in living standards.

Why is all the above pie in the sky? There are 2+ million Palestinians who, if they become Israeli citizens, could disturb the balance of political power.

Thus - back to square one. Everyone being appalled at Israel with nothing to offer but scolding remarks and no solutions. I suppose that Israel could develop the West Bank, providing employment opportunity for the Palestinians and growth of wealth. If that's Netanyahu's intention, he needs to get them onside - so back to square one!