Washington, DC, July 18 -- The American Task Force on Palestine (ATFP) yesterday held a policy briefing at the National Press Club in Washington on "Israeli-Palestinian War in a New Regional Landscape." The panel, entirely composed of ATFP experts, called for an immediate ceasefire and analyzed the hostilities and their political implications from several perspectives. The event was sponsored by ATFP Board Member Ameen Estaiteyeh.

ATFP President Ziad J. Asali framed the overall issue, expressed deep concern at the human suffering and destruction, and reiterated the Task Force's commitment to peace and a two-state solution as the only way to avoid further such tragedies. ATFP Board Member, Prof. Saliba Sarsar of Monmouth University, examined the ethico-political aspects of the conflict and prospects for conflict resolution between Israel and the Palestinians. Ghaith Al-Omari, ATFP Executive Director, analyzed the political impact and implications on the Palestinians, Israel and Egypt. A broader regional perspective was provided by ATFP Senior Fellow Hussein Ibish. A lively Q&A session followed the presentations.