If You're Listening How Middle East peace plans were hatched in the Norwegian woods
Aug 13, 2025
Dive into the fascinating world of Middle East peace negotiations, where two Norwegians believed they could make a difference. Discover the complexities of the Oslo Accords and the personal connections that shaped them. Explore the historical context of Palestine's recognition and the impact of Rabin's tragic assassination on peace efforts. Unravel how maps reflect varying international perspectives on the conflict. This captivating narrative reveals the ongoing challenges and evolving dynamics of peace in this tumultuous region.
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Secret Norwegian Facilitation
- Mona Juul and Terje Rød-Larsen secretly brokered talks in Oslo that led to the Oslo Accords.
- They organised walks in the woods, log fires and private socialising to humanise both sides and build trust.
Small Private Talks Over Big Public Summits
- Public, media-driven summits often became spectacles that prevented real negotiation.
- Mona and Terje used quiet, small-group discussions to allow honest dialogue and incremental progress.
Recognition Without Resolution
- The Oslo Accords recognised each side but left major issues unresolved like Jerusalem and refugees.
- The deal created an interim Palestinian Authority with limited powers and a phased plan for control over territories.
