On May 5th, ATFP Advocacy Director Ghaith Al-Omari participated in a panel discussion entitled "The Jerusalem Old City Initiative: Sustainable Governance Solutions".

In his presentation, Mr. Al-Omari expressed support for the efforts of the Jerusalem Old City Initiative to present detailed, concrete suggestions for some of the practical issues that will be negotiated between Palestinians and Israelis in permanent status negotiations.

In particular, he drew attention to the fact the Initiative offers proof that despite the political complexity of negotiations over Jerusalem, practical solutions can be reached. He concluded that the Initiative will provide negotiator with detailed ideas that will facilitate the quest towards a conflict-ending peace agreement between the two parties.

Mr. Al-Omari also stressed that until a permanent peace deal is reached, the parties and the international community should ensure that no provocative action is taken in Jerusalem in light of the highly emotive status of the city. He warned against rhetoric from either side that seeks to belittle the other side's symbolic attachment to the Holy City.