Practically What To Do Now
The most immediate step to solving the problem is to
settle the entire land. Wherever there is open space in Judea, Samaria, Gaza, and the
Golan, settlements should be established. There is no need to displace Arabs; there is
ample empty land.
This should not be done with fanfare. The idea is not to create an image, but to create
a reality. When the land is settled by Jews, it will become obvious to all that we
consider this as Jewish land, not theoretically, but practically. Indeed, the fact that
settlement is the issue which the Arabs protest most vehemently should make it clear that
it is Israel's highest priority. It is the most pragmatic means at Israel's disposal to
change the balance of power in her favor. Once widespread settlement becomes a fact, it
will impossible to turn back the clock. The Arabs outside Israel will appreciate that the
borders will not be moved back. And the Arabs inside Israel will understand that their
future exists in coexistence with the Jews and not with struggle against them.
Unquestionably, there will be protests at the outset. They must be met with resolution.
When this is done, the Arabs and the other nations will ultimately realize the reality:
Israel is serious about defending her self-interest; this land will not be given away.
For this purpose, it is important that new settlement be broad in scope. The same
clamor will be raised by the Arabs whether a new home is added to an existing settlement,
one new settlement is founded, or the entire land is settled. So why hold back?
Indeed, restrictions against settlement invite protest. For it becomes obvious that
restrictions are imposed only because in essence there are Israels who feel that they
don't really belong there. Settling the land without restriction, by contrast, broadcasts
a message of confident self-esteem. It shows the entire world that Israel is doing
everything possible to maintain her security and will not be halted in that endeavor.