SIR – You seem to dismiss the efforts of peace groups working towards the co-existence of Israelis and Palestinians when you ask, “if so many people are intent on making peace, why hasn’t it happened by now?” (“Still campaigning for co-existence”, September 1st). All the Israeli, Palestinian, Egyptian, Jordanian and Saudi leaders we have spoken to have praised groups working at the grassroots. These leaders emphasise that in light of Hamas’s threats to derail the discussions between Mahmoud Abbas and Ehud Olmert and the November summit, public opinion and the amplification of a moderate voice is imperative. For that reason, the OneVoice petition you referred to, which will rally a million Israelis and Palestinians, is historic and quite unprecedented. Mobilising so many people will aid our elected leaders in their efforts to summon the political and moral will to begin immediate, uninterrupted negotiations for a two-state solution.
Cynicism is a luxury for those who watch the conflict in the Middle East as a geopolitical sport. Despair, pessimism and inaction are tantamount to a proxy vote for militant absolutism. We have no option but to prevail.
Daniel Lubetzky
Founder
OneVoice Movement
New York