Israel made significant sacrifices in pursuit of a two-state solution, offering land for the establishment of a Palestinian state and even dividing Jerusalem, the eternal capital. Despite these efforts, Palestinian leadership rejected every opportunity presented, including proposals for statehood following unilateral withdrawals, which instead led to conflict and violence. Observing the actions of Palestinian leaders and their culture reveals a lack of genuine desire for a state. This suggests that the real issue in the conflict is not the existence of a Palestinian state but rather the acceptance of a Jewish state, as evidenced by the prevailing sentiments in education and culture. The implications of recent events indicate that the aspirations of the Palestinian leadership may extend beyond mere statehood.
The two-state solution proposes establishing a separate Palestinian state alongside Israel as one way to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. But post-October 7th and the ongoing war, is it still a possible outcome? Those who say “yes” argue it’s the most logical path toward achieving regional peace. Those who disagree say that the current circumstances and previous failed attempts makes the solution unlikely. Now we debate, in partnership with the Council on Foreign Relations: Is the Two-State Solution Still Viable?
Arguing Yes:
Ambassador Dennis Ross, Counselor and Distinguished Fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy;
Mohammed Dajani Daoudi, Palestinian Peace Activist and Scholar; Founding Director of the Wasatia Academic Institute
Arguing No:
Elliott Abrams, Senior Fellow for Middle Eastern Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations;
Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Former Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem, Israel’s Special Envoy for Trade & Innovation
Emmy award-winning journalist John Donvan moderates
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices