For Israelis and Palestinians to be optimistic is all about coexisting, and Israel is making a good effort to promote religious freedom and human rights--more than its Arab neighbors. So it's sad how the UN and former US President Jimmy Carter tend to single out Israel for human rights violations, when there are far more oppressive nations in the world. The most pertinent concern about Israel would just be the walls and territories, which make it appear like the elephant in the room. Nonetheless, Israel is overall a very secure country. Given that the Middle East can be big enough for Jews and Arabs, why not allow official Palestinian land either in the West Bank or Gaza? Israel did make an effort to withdraw Jewish territories in exchange for land with the Palestinians two years ago, but unfortunately it seems very difficult to please the Palestinians. Jewish teachings and Israel are all about coexisting, both Jews and Gentiles (as opposed to world denomination, which Islam is perceived to convey). There would still be conflict in the world, even if Israel did not exist, as has before the Jewish state emerged in 1948. Thus, life is short, so its best to forgive quickly and not cause religious conflict. It's all a matter of the choices we make that result in a ripple effect around the world.

Nicholas Rosen

Great Falls, VA