Opinion Editorials, October 2007
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Sarkozy: Israel's Greatest Ally
By Nasser Lahham
Date: 23 / 10 / 2007 Time: 14:52
Bethlehem - Ma'an
The French President considers the creation of the state of Israel to be the miracle of the twentieth century and one of humanity's most significant accomplishments. Regardless of the anticipated comments of the Palestinian Ambassador to France, what was said by Israel's Channel 2 political analysts was horrifying enough for Fatah, Hamas and other Palestinian factions.
Israeli journalist Audi Segal, who accompanied Ehud Olmert on his visit to France, described the trip as "historical" and said that the PM was warmly welcomed. He also said that late President Yasser Arafat would turn in his grave.
The truth is that France remained committed to Palestinian issues into the days of Ariel Sharon and they even opposed him when he besieged Arafat in the presidential compound in Ramallah.
France even held a formal funeral for Arafat befitting of any of the world's great leaders, and opposed Sharon when he called on French Jews to migrate to Israel in 2004.
However, France has shifted it's stance under the reign of President Sarkozy, who has become one of Israel's most intimate friends.
Among Sarkozy's statements, which the Israeli press published on Tuesday, is that the Palestinian demand for the right of return of refugees to their homes in Israel is illogical as Palestinians cannot demand an independent state and simultaneously demand Palestinian refugees return to 'Israel'.
The Israeli press emphasised that the French president hosted Olmert hospitably, stating his deep support of Israel
Sarkozy was quoted as saying, "Israel is the twentieth century's miracle and defending its existence is an international duty"; a heavyweight declaration which parallels the Balfour Declaration of 1917 and the Bush Vision.
"Israel introduces diversity and democracy to the Middle East. It is a miracle that out of the remnants of the […] scattered Jewish people, such a state has arisen."
Elysee Palace, the French President's office, became a mouthpiece for the Israeli position on the autumn summit when Sarkozy's spokesperson said, "As long as the security of Israel is preserved, talks can be held with the Palestinians."
The question is whether the French pro-Palestinian position can be restored? Can the Palestinians revive the political legacy of Arafat? Or is the new era to be dominated by intra-Palestinian conflict?
Nasser Lahham is the Editor of the Palestinian news agency, Ma'an.
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