For the transition period to be smooth, the two sides need a crisis management plan. The lack of a plan and unilateral steps raise the risk of falling into another prolonged crisis as in the past due to mismanagement of the conflict. We should not have to start from ground zero with every new government.
An important aspect for Palestinians is that any achievement obtained in the current peace talks is recorded officially so that when new leaders get back to the negotiation table they do not start from scratch again but from the point where the predecessors stopped.
What should the role of the United States be?
The United States can help the two sides reach points of agreement, if not a full agreement, at this stage. We, all sides, are good at wasting time and resources, but lack of responsibility and innovation in this case risks the lives of both Israelis and Palestinians.
We need the United States to play a more effective role as mediator from day one. The next president should start early and be very engaged. Ideally, the new administration would nominate a Middle East envoy along the lines of George Mitchell—very strong, independent, honest and knowledgeable with a greater scope than just security issues who can help the parties reach peace and not be perceived as taking sides. In addition, the United States should work with the European Union countries; perhaps task the Blair team with follow on during the U.S. transition.
Most important for all the parties, I think, is to give people a sense of the possible and show that their governments are able to deliver. Access the full interview>>