MK Benny Elon
Photo: Haim Tzach
MK Elon: Palestinian refugee issue fuels terrorism
'Placing refugee issue in UNRWA's hands a serious mistake,' head of the Israeli Initiative tells foreign journalists
"The perpetuation of the Palestinian refugees is the gas fueling the terror," Knesset Member Benny Elon (National Union – NRP), head of the Israeli Initiative, said during a meeting with the Forum of Foreign Journalists in Jerusalem this week.
According to Elon, "many US congressmen understand the serious error of placing the refugee issue in the hands of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and they are greatly helping us in promoting the ideas regarding this issue as proposed within the framework of the Israeli Initiative. We are also working vigorously in other countries."
"The Israeli Initiative is the first in proposing a humanitarian solution, not a political one, to the refugees' suffering," said the MK.
During the meeting Elon explained what he believes are the pitfalls of Oslo and the 2005 disengagement from Gaza. "We can enter Gaza and deal with the terror bases. There is no doubt that much blood will be shed but what will happen the day after we leave there, will the deep-rooted problem be resolved? You must change your conceptions and think in a creative and sane manner," he said.
MK Elon concluded by saying, "to continue saying that Hamas is not a partner while Abu Mazen (Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas) is- is to stick our head in the sand. It is only possible to reach a comprehensive agreement which will provide the solution for peace and quiet in our region with countries like Jordan and Egypt."
