Palestinian Autonomy A Real Possibility?

In 9th grade, many of us discussed the solution to the Israel-Palestine problem. Unfortunately, the solutions that we arrived at seemed both vague and quixotic. Any change to the current cycle of a small war, followed by tense peace between Israeli and Palestinian people seemed almost taboo to consider. Palestine will not immediately attain statehood, and there are many hurdles to overcome before Palestine can be recognized as a country. First of all, do the people of Palestine actually want statehood? Many are not willing to budge and accept defeat. The creation of a Palestinian state would prevent terrorists from attacking Israel with ease. If a single rocket crossed the Israeli border, a firestorm of might would come reigning down upon Palestine. The international community would not be as quick to criticize Israel if it performed self-defense instead of brute aggression. Also, could Palestine support itself? Many rivaling factions within the West Bank are all hungry for power and the go ahead for statehood could lead to a civil war.

All in all, this touchy issue is not going to be resolved anytime soon. Most people don't believe in allowing human suffering. If the Palestinian people are truly suffering, and statehood would help them be more fulfilled, so be it.