I’ve always been in favor of the two-state solution for the Israelis and the Palestinians. This view has formed the basis for my ongoing series that examines the multitude of issues in play throughout the volitile region.
But, following a low-grade civil war that has led to Hamas’ takeover of the Gaza Strip and Fatah’s consolidation of power in the West Bank, I’m not sure a two-state solution is possible anymore. As much as it pains me to say this, I’m no longer convinced that the Palestinians are able to govern themselves as an official state.
So, let me float a new idea: The West Bank should be divided between Israel and Jordan. Israel annexes the Western edge of the area, where the settlements exist. Jordan receives the rest, and either annexes it outright or allows it to remain as a semi-autonomous region.
After all, Jordan controlled the West Bank until Israel took it over in the Six-Day War. Most of the Palestinian people were actually Jordanians before they were deemed “Palestinian.” But there are two issues: 1.) What would happen to Gaza? I don’t know. 2.) I doubt Jordan would want an influx of millions of refugees and extremist militants.
What do you think?
