Bridging Divides: A Bold Vision for Middle East Peace
December 15, 2024 | Ehud Olmert and Nasser Al-Kidwa with Larry Mantle | Two Former Leaders – An Israeli and a Palestinian – Offer Path to Peace – Summary Prepared by JUDJ Team
In a recent America at a Crossroads discussion, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and former Palestinian Foreign Minister Nasser Al-Kidwa shared a groundbreaking proposal for achieving peace in the Middle East. Both seasoned leaders, with decades of experience on the global political stage, have set aside historical divides to collaborate on a detailed and practical two-state solution. At a time when peace seems more distant than ever, Olmert and Al-Kidwa’s partnership proves that a shared vision and courageous leadership can pave the way toward coexistence and stability.
An Unlikely Partnership with a Common Purpose
For years, Ehud Olmert and Nasser Al-Kidwa knew of each other, but they had never met face-to-face until recently. Their partnership began in an unexpected place—a Zoom call moderated by journalist Tom Friedman. What could have been a routine conversation quickly turned into something more profound: the realization that they shared the same goals and a similar approach to peace.
Reflecting on their early discussions, Olmert explained that, despite their vastly different backgrounds, the two leaders instantly connected over a shared belief: peace is not an impossible dream. “While everyone says peace is impossible, we are closer than most people think,” Olmert said. This optimism drives their joint peace proposal, a plan that balances practicality with hope.
The Proposal: A Practical Two-State Solution
At the core of their plan is the establishment of two independent states—Israel and Palestine—based on the pre-1967 borders with agreed-upon land swaps. Key elements of the proposal include:
- Land Swaps for Stability:
The plan calls for Israel to retain 4.4% of the West Bank, an area that already includes 82% of Jewish settlers living beyond the Green Line. In exchange, a comparably sized portion of Israeli land would be transferred to a Palestinian state. This approach ensures that the future Palestinian state’s total size matches its 1967 boundaries. - Shared Jerusalem:
Recognizing the city’s immense symbolic and religious importance, the proposal envisions a divided but shared Jerusalem. West Jerusalem would remain Israel’s capital, while East Jerusalem would serve as Palestine’s capital. Crucially, the Old City—home to sites sacred to Jews, Muslims, and Christians—would be governed by an international multi-party trust. This trust would guarantee open access to all holy sites while ensuring no single nation holds exclusive sovereignty. - Ending the Gaza Conflict:
Olmert and Al-Kidwa emphasize that ending the war in Gaza is essential to any sustainable peace. Their proposal outlines the formation of a transitional Palestinian Council to govern Gaza, with security provided by an interim Arab force coordinated with the Palestinian Authority.
Why This Matters
Olmert and Al-Kidwa’s vision is not just another theoretical plan. It represents a rare and courageous partnership between leaders who understand the complexities of the conflict but refuse to accept the status quo. As Al-Kidwa said, their proposal is both “reasonable” and “doable,” offering a clear pathway toward stability.
Their willingness to tackle tough issues, such as Palestinian refugees and settlements, sets this plan apart. By addressing these challenges through negotiation, mutual recognition, and international support, Olmert and Al-Kidwa provide a much-needed reminder: peace requires realism, compromise, and leadership.
The Power of Collaboration
What makes this initiative so powerful is the credibility of its authors. Olmert, as a former Israeli prime minister, and Al-Kidwa, a prominent Palestinian diplomat, are no strangers to political battles. Both leaders have faced skepticism and resistance in their respective communities, yet their determination to work together sends a powerful message.
As Olmert explained, history shows that public opinion can change when leadership takes bold steps. Just as the peace agreement with Egypt in 1979 and Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 seemed impossible at first, so too can this new vision become reality. “Things can change, and they will change,” Olmert stated confidently.
A Call for Support
Olmert and Al-Kidwa’s message is clear: peace is achievable, but it requires support from all sides. They urge the international community, regional leaders, and citizens to rally behind their proposal. Their partnership is a testament to what can be accomplished when dialogue replaces division and leaders embrace a shared future.
At a time when hope feels scarce, their vision offers a powerful reminder that peace is not just a dream—it is a choice.
About America at a Crossroads
Since April 2020, America at a Crossroads has produced weekly virtual programs on topics related to the preservation of our democracy, voting rights, freedom of the press, and a wide array of civil rights, including abortion rights, free speech, and free press. America at a Crossroads is a project of Jews United for Democracy & Justice.