[WCUSP] ?Support Annapolis?

[Barbara Taft]

Our position is that we support Annapolis, with the qualifier that Hamas
MUST be included, which is explained in our letter to Secretary Rice.  I
have heard behind-the-scenes talk that both Fatah and the Israelis know
that this must be what happens.  The question is merely how to do it.  I
believe that the talks could begin, that the inclusion of Hamas could be
a major part of discussions, and that it could be a jumping-off point
for further talks that would be fruitful.  I base this on another factor
that is at work here:  Bush's awareness that he needs a "legacy" and has
decided that Middle East peace is going to be "it".  Maybe I am too
optimistic (although I'm not sure even I would give myself that label in
this case), but I am of the belief that getting to the table at this point
is nearly half the battle.  Bringing everyone to the table is simply an
exercise in "gathering," and I believe there will be strong forces at
play to see that it gets done.  Also, if the U.S. and Israel choose to
exclude Hamas, this will be an instance where the blame for the talks'
failure will not lie with the Palestinians, who are more than willing to
move the talks forward, as long as the representatives of all of their
people are included.  

Barb T.


--- KATHARLOW at aol.com wrote:

>  
> I don't, nor do I believe that WILPF should, support the Annapolis meeting  
> because of the exclusion of a large faction which represent a great number of  
> Palestinians.  None of the Palestinians I know (neither Christian or  Muslim) 
> support it either.  It's considered another no-win American-Israeli  trap.
>  
> KHarlow
> 
> 
> 
> 
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