Summary

Our Comprehensive Proposal for Reconciliation offers a phased approach to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It reimagines the classic two-state solution for a practical path forward.

• In Phase One, the plan prioritizes security and stability by establishing clear boundaries, deploying a peacekeeping force to protect all civilians, and enabling nation-building in the Palestinian territories.
• In Phase Two, the plan envisions a federated system ensuring freedom of movement, equal rights, and shared governance, including a shared federal capital in Jerusalem and a joint defense force.

The plan also includes a set of necessary milestones for transitioning from the first phase to the second, such as disarmament of each side’s extremist actors and universal education to unite the population behind narratives that emphasize democratic principles and respect. It is grounded in human rights, equality, and peaceful coexistence, aiming for a future where Israelis and Palestinians coexist with security, freedom, and dignity in an equal federation.

More details

This is a stepped plan that takes Israel-Palestine out of occupation and blockade, first to a two-state solution similar to that outlined by Olmert and Abbas during their 2000s peace talks and finally to a federal vision. This plan builds on what has already been resolved between the parties. Prioritizing liberation, security, and equality for all the people of the region, our goal is for the next generation of Palestinian and Israeli children to flourish, reach their full potential, and grow up in safety.

During the two-state phase, we will ensure that security and the foundations for just governance can be overseen by regional peacekeepers. However, since freedom of movement and residence are key for both Israelis and Palestinians, we realize separation cannot be a permanent solution. A phased approach will enable these freedoms, while alleviating Palestinians’ fears that a separate demilitarized state would always be at risk with Israel as a neighbor and Israelis’ fears that rushing into integration will lead to internal attacks and violence. Both states will be required to create and enforce laws preventing the growth of extremist political parties and views. Intensive nation-building will occur in the Palestinian state, bringing economic equality and a conducive environment for federation.

Some shared governmental structures will be created to administer both states from the start. Most notably, the central government would oversee a common education system that should help the two peoples, Israelis and Palestinians, build a shared historical narrative. Shared education is a crucial basis for the reconciliation, mutual humanization, and solidarity necessary to build trust, which is a precondition for joint actions to promote a shared future. The central government would also oversee the equitable allocation of resources such as electricity, water, and revenues from oil and gas.

We expect this central government to gradually and organically consolidate in power. A history of peace will allow trust to grow between the Israeli and Palestinian peoples, Palestine to gain the time to establish itself as a state on its own terms, and borders to again open. The Federation would be created by popular vote. Unification referenda would be held periodically, perhaps every five or eight years, and would require the approval of both nations.

The draft plan is still evolving. Write to team (at) peaceproposal (dot) org to be notified of updates and/or discuss joining the project. We have created many documents to address elements of this roadmap and are working through them online continuously. We would love to have you learn more and possibly join us!