Palestinians: Poverty statistics work against hopes for peace

September 4, 2002

Israelis and Palestinians should be equally troubled about a report that Israeli security restrictions have pushed unemployment in Palestinian territories to 50 percent, and poverty rates as high as 70 percent.

The statistics, reported by the United Nations envoy to the Middle East, should prompt Israel to take steps toward easing restrictions in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. And it should push Palestinian factions who support suicide bombings to stop handing Israel an excuse to essentially shut down the Palestinian economy.

Both sides must resume peace talks toward a political settlement, which remains the only viable solution to this bloody and longstanding conflict.

Last spring, Israel reoccupied major Palestinian urban areas in response to suicide bombings. Israel has imposed curfews, sealed off much of the West Bank, and restricted the movement of people and goods. Many West Bank residents are confined to their homes for days at a time.

Americans, who often get hot about hitting a traffic jam on their way to work, should understand the frustration that such oppressive, everyday restrictions can fuel.

Israel says it understands that it is punishing many for the deeds of a few, but says the sweeping restrictions are needed to keep terrorists from entering Israel. Indeed, Palestinians who persist in supporting suicide bombings must understand that random terror only invites such a response.

Ultimately, however, Israel's legitimate security needs won't be met by making the Palestinian people even more desperate than they are. There are few things in the world more dangerous than someone who feels he has nothing more to lose.