Political Quotes

“I spoke today with the press about the idea that NATO, if requested, might provide a peacekeeping force to support a cease-fire previously agreed to by the Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority. NATO peacekeepers would have to be invited by both governments, and in no way should be viewed as a challenge to either side's sovereignty. The acceptance of this offer would have to be coupled with a commitment by Israel and the Palestinian Authority to cooperate in every way possible to permit the peacekeeping mission to succeed. I fully recognize that this would not be a risk-free operation for the participating NATO forces, some of which could be American. But I nonetheless believe that the offer of peacekeepers from NATO would have many benefits. First, it would demonstrate a strong international commitment to peace in the Middle East. By their presence, NATO peacekeepers might give hope to people on both sides that violence will be curtailed. Second, it would offer the prospect of a peacekeeping force that is ready to go, today. It is highly capable, rapidly deployable, and has a proven record of success with peacekeeping in the Balkans. Third, a NATO peacekeeping force is likely to be acceptable to both parties, given the traditional European associations with the Palestinian people and the traditional United States associations with the people of Israel.”