WHAT ABOUT THE MIDDLE EAST?
The State Press has been consistent in their coverage, from the “Occupy X” protests to religious maniacs to tuition cuts, but it seems that the Middle Eastern affairs have disappeared from the radar.
We heard a little about how the Palestinian Authority has refused to meet directly with Israel to discuss negotiations and has instead decided to petition for member status at the U.N. without a prior peace deal with Israel.
This past Monday, members of the U.N. Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization voted to accept Palestine as a member, completely sidestepping the peace process and knowing full well that the U.S. would cut its $60 million funding.
Under law, the U.S. is unable to grant funding to UNESCO if a Palestinian leadership organization is granted membership before Israel-Palestinian peace is achieved.
While Israel has been ready to negotiate, the Palestinian leadership has made it clear that they are not interested in real peace by refusing to directly negotiate with Israel without preconditions.
Although it is commendable for the U.S. to abide by this law and cut UNESCO funding, will it effectively convince the Palestinians, their leadership and the world that the only way for peace between the two nations is by direct negotiations?
Sam Rush
Undergraduate
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