The writer has a lot of respect for Mr Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and for his steadfast position towards the Muslim Brotherhood, which is a terrorist organization. We were happy to observe the positive role Egypt has taken on since the violence erupted in Gaza. However, the revival of the Arab Peace Initiative comes as a surprise to me, as I was always thinking that there is a better way to achieve an understanding, which would be in the interest of Egypt, Israel and the entire Middle East.

We were looking forward to a tight cooperation between Egypt and Israel, which could solve many local problems, enhance the economic situation in the Middle East and improve the quality of life of the people. It is a fact that when the Jews lived in Arab countries, they contributed to their development and prosperity. It is time to consider Israel as an important trade and development partner. For this, good leadership and intelligence are necessary. After all, these two nations are descendants of the same father. They should take the path to peace and not that of war.

Until now, the Palestinians did not play a positive role. In my view, they do not deserve the friendship of Israel and of the Jewish people. We have to give some time to the Israelis and the Palestinians to work it out. Meanwhile, the entire Middle East has to emerge and leave the state of paralysis it is now in

Copyright Emile Tubiana