Haaretz
Nisan 1, 5766
The
leaders of the Christian faith in Israel and the Palestinian territories
expressed concern over the possibility that the newly elected Israeli
government will continue its unilateral withdrawal from the territories:
"On this occasion we wish to express our concerns regarding the frequent
talks on Israeli intentions to proceed in implementing unilateral measures
in the West Bank, while seemingly ignoring the Palestinians and their
democratically-elected leadership," they said.
In a special
announcement published Wednesday in English and Arabic, following the
results of the election to the 17th Knesset, the Christian leaders urged
the international community "to explain to all parties, but especially to
the Israeli decision makers, who are the dominant decision-makers for the
time-being in the holy land, that unilateral measures will probably bring
some temporary solutions, but such measures will not end the mutual
mistrust and misunderstanding between the two peoples living in this
beloved and blessed land."
The Christians then proceed to address
the Israeli and Palestinian governments saying: "We urge the elected
Israeli leadership to demonstrate courage and wisdom by resuming the peace
process with the Palestinians.
At the same time, we urge the
Palestinian leaders to send a clear message of peace to the Israeli
citizens, as well. We are confident that the vast majority of the Israelis
and Palestinians are tired from the Conflict and eager to live in
security, peace and justice."