While Mr Abbas has is faults (who doesn't?) I do believe he's one of the most committed to achieving peace. I think he genuinely sees it as the only way the Palestinians are going to have any chance at a decent future. He's right.
The political structure that Yasser Arafat put in place, and the lack of real commitment from Israel, as evidenced by the continued building in disputed lands, must be taxing for anyone. But Mr Abbas doesn't have the support mechanism he needs to succeed; frankly, far too many on both sides are intent on keeping the status quo.
Mr Obama needs to get involved, more involved, as does Mrs Clinton. Their special envoy, George Mitchell, is an accomplished diplomat - but he needs more help, too. Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister, is clearly not interested in furthering talks; Mrs Clinton probably needs to carry a large stick, next time she's in Israel. Hamas has consistently refused to participate in talks, but seems to want to influence whatever talks do happen, nonetheless.
It is within Israel's interests, and it certainly is within Palestinian interests, to have a peaceable relationship. No one ever said it would easy getting there, but Mr Netanyahu and Hamas seem to be acting in concert with their continued construction of diplomatic minefields and obstacle courses. When President Obama meets Mr Netanyahu, next week, he should stress how important peace is, and point out, in no uncertain terms, how Mr Netanyahu's government is undermining the whole thing.
Democracy has a chance in Palestine, but if Mr Abbas resigns, there's a very real danger the entire Palestinian Authority will collapse. Hamas and Mr Netanyahu might be happy at that prospect, but no one else is. It would set back democracy, and the fragile peace process. And that's not acceptable. But it might be what is.
Carolyn Ann
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