Kadima party under Ehud Olmert has emerged as the single largest party in the Israeli elections held recently and there is every chance that the 2000 year old problem will finally be settled.
Sharon's vision
Ariel Sharon had rightly judged the mood of the nation and had decided rightly in favour of withdrawing from the West Bank province. The formation of Kadima Party was the result of Sharon's dream of finally settling the Palestine Issue. But unfortunately Sharon has suffered from a stroke and it has been clear that even if he survives the stroke, he can't play any role in the Israeli politics any more. After Sharon's exit from the political scenario, his successor Ehud Olmert faces a harduous task of leading the Kadima Party and settling the Palestine issue.
Likud Party's Defeat
Likud Party under the leadership of Benjamin Netanyahu, who had opposed Sharon's attempt to peace was trounced heavily in the elections winning only 11 of the 120 seats. This reveals that the Israelis have forsaken the dream of the Greater (Historic) Israel for peace.
The Hamas threat
The greatest thraet to peace right now is The Hamas who has won the Palestine elections. Hamas, not prepared to accept the groung realities are still refusing to accept the state of Israel. Unless Hamas refuses to lay down arms and accept the state of Israel any decision regarding the future of Jerusalem will be taken by Israel unilaterally. Such a step would be unfortunate. So it is for Hamas to decide what should be their role in the entire peace process.
If Ehud Olmert and his Palestinian counterparts succeed in negotiations, the holy land will not only find a solution to the 2000 year old problem but also both Ehud Olmert and Ariel Sharon will join the ranks of Saladdin, Richard, the Lionheart, Balban, the defender of Jerusalem etc in the legend of Jerusalem.
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