Let the Land Flourish

Until the conflict is resolved, you’ll never see the full potentials of both the Palestinians and Israelis. The Israelis already have an advanced economy carried by their technological sector, but until they’re no longer occupiers and can cut down on their defense budget, you won’t see their economy hit its potential. Likewise for the Palestinians, they’ve never had a state of their own and have lived under occupation for their entire existence. The Ottomans, the British, the Jordanians, and now the Israelis have all controlled the West Bank. Even without their own sovereignty Palestinian culture has flourished, and in the past few years the economy has begun to expand and foreign companies are increasing their investments in the West Bank. The future looks promising for both of these countries, even under present conditions, but I truly don’t believe we will see the full potential of either country until a while after the peace treaties have been signed. I’m fascinated, and horrified, by what is going on right now, but part of that interest is because I know Israel and Palestine will remain relevant, and critical, for the rest of my life. As Islam is forced to reform, through internal pressures, and the Arab world is faced with democratization, Israel will remain crucial throughout the entire process, and I truly believe Israel and Palestine, as allies and hopefully friends, will be able to make great things happen in this region.