Reply #47: DuctapeFatwa and Resistance.... [View All]

[Equinox]

Look what I came across:

Ten reasons why Israel should join the Arab League
Moshe Hillel Eitan
On September 11, 2002, the one-year anniversary of the terror attacks in the United States, the Arab world should make a groundbreaking historic decision: offer the State of Israel associate membership in the Arab League. I present ten reasons why this step should be taken:

First, if the Arab League grants admission to the State of Israel, this action would immediately reduce tension in the Middle East and pave the way towards comprehensive peace.

As an Arab League member, Israel would be able to freely engage in direct talks with Syria, Lebanon and other Arab states. This action would transform non-action and non-recognition into solution-oriented problem solving.

The Arab League would be transformed into a progressive forum for peace.

Second, Israel, as a member of the Arab League, could help boost the economies of Arab countries by paving the way towards an Arab-Israeli Trade Agreement.

Products made in Saudi Arabia could be marketed in Tel Aviv.

Furthermore, the Middle East itself could evolve into a stable economic zone of investment in order to attract more foreign investment.

By joining the Arab League, Israel and the Arab world would effectively end the self-destructive economic boycott of Israel. Business and investment would be forever separated from political strife.

Third, this historic act would help to bring about full diplomatic recognition and normalization of relations. The exchange of dialogue at Arab League meetings would be a precursor to an exchange of ambassadors and consuls between Israel and the Arab world.

Fourth, nearly 20 percent of Israel's population is made up of Israeli Arab citizens. Accepting Israel into the Arab League would also grant acceptance to Israel's Arab population as well. Logically, the Israeli Arab is a fundamental member of the Arab world. It therefore follows that this population should have a voice in the Arab League. By granting membership to Israel as a whole, both Israeli Jews and Arabs would have a forum in which to discuss political, social, cultural and economic matters.

Fifth, Israel, as a member of the Arab League, would make possible military and security cooperation throughout the Middle East. Today the region is unfairly known as a haven for terrorists. With a greater degree of cooperation, the region could be transformed into a modern, thriving realm of peace and security.

More at MidEast Times

Comment: I thought this was rather interesting....