If the current situation remains as is and there is no significant progress in the peace talks, it is important to look at temporary alternative ways to manage the city better for the welfare of all of its residents. …
De facto, Jerusalem is already divided. There is no real integration between Jews and Arabs. We suggest dividing the city into separate boroughs, Jewish and Arab, all of which would be under Israeli sovereignty until a peace agreement is reached, but with greater autonomy devolved to each borough in the fields of education, infrastructure, culture, et cetera. …
This should be the pressing task now—to create a viable temporary alternative to the current situation that would make normal life possible for Jerusalem’s residents until we reach a final status agreement. … [I]t’s our mutual interest to improve the quality of life for people. It is important though to ensure that any temporary solution would not undermine the chance of reaching a final status agreement on Jerusalem. The international community can help implement a temporary solution with restoration of East Jerusalem neighborhoods, help in improvement of the infrastructure and creation of joint projects in the fields of employment, culture and education. Access the full interview>>
