Since 1967, when Israel occupied the eastern part of Jerusalem, there has been a silent movement by Israeli politicians and consecutive prime ministers to ensure that talk on the fate of occupied East Jerusalem is always pushed to "later stages" of any "negotiations" with the Palestinians or even the international community.
In fact, the first time occupied Jerusalem was put on the negotiating table was during the Camp David meetings in 2000. Then-Israeli prime minister Ehud Barak received heavy criticism from many Israelis for even discussing it.
The latest evidence to show Israel's true intentions came in the form of a vote on Wednesday; Israel's parliament passed the first phase of a Bill requiring a two-thirds majority for any change in the status of occupied Jerusalem. In other words, Israeli lawmakers want to ensure that sharing Jerusalem with the Palestinians is non-negotiable.
Although Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert didn't attend the vote, senior members of his coalition voted in favour of the proposed Bill. Two weeks before the Annapolis conference, this vote reveals the extent to which the Israeli government is willing to "concede". The fact is, occupied Jerusalem extends beyond Israel's plans; the parameters for a lasting peace are clear and they include, the creation of a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.
Front Page Features