Opting for a path of peace

It looked like statehood. It sounded like statehood. It even felt like statehood when U.S. President Bill Clinton addressed the Palestinian National Council (PNC) following its cancellation of "anti-Israel" clauses in the Palestinian National Charter.

The overwhelming support of the PNC for the revision of the charter -- only a few dozen out of 900 present remained seated during the vote -- should send a strong message to Israel. The majority of Palestinians, young and old alike, believe that the path of peace is in the best interests of their future generations and the region as a whole.

But on both banks of the Jordan River, all parties must be wondering: is Israel receiving the messages that its peace partners are sending.

It's an all too familiar story of no give and all take. However, it is too difficult to remain uninspired by yesterday's events in Gaza itself, so Jordanians encourage their Palestinian brethren to stay the course in the best of faith. But they still demand that Israel do the right thing, not the least of which is to recognize yesterday's message.

-- The Jordan Times, Amman