Publication

This report examines the question of Jerusalem in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. The authors argue that policies of the Sharon government, such as the creation of a "Jerusalem envelope" to the west of the separation barrier, the promotion of Jewish neighborhoods/settlements outside East Jerusalem, and the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, do not address Israel's legitimate security concerns. Rather, they undermine a two-state solution by weakening Palestinian pragmatists, including President Abbas, and offering a potent pretext for militant Palestinians to violate the shaky ceasefire. The report concludes with a set of policy recommendations for the Israeli government and the Quartet.