Jerusalem: Present and Future

In view of the political complexities of Jerusalem, what is the most desirable course of action that Israel's national authorities should take in regard to the city that is of such central concern to Jews, Christians and Muslims?

We must act on the assumption that, given the realities of the Middle East today, it will be a very long time before any Arab leader or ruler of stature may be willing to negotiate, let alone sign, a document on a united Jerusalem with a Jewish majority-no matter what concessions Israel may offer on such issues as independent control of the Muslim Holy Places or local autonomy for the city's Arab residents.

Therefore, what Israel must do in Jerusalem is very clear. We must recognize that Jerusalem will be among the last items on the agenda as the Middle East's problems are solved, and we must strive in the meantime to make the quality of life for all people in the city as attractive as we possibly can.

II

In July 1977, writing for Foreign Affairs on the tenth anniversary of the reunification of Jersusalem, I listed four principles that guided our actions in administering our city. These principles were put forth as follows:

1. There shall be free access to all the Holy Places irrespective of nationality and they shall be administered by their adherents.

2. Everything possible shall be done to ensure unhindered development of the Arab way of life in the Arab sections of the city and ensure Muslims and Christians a practical religious, cultural and commercial governance over their own daily lives.

3. Everything possible should be done to ensure equal governmental, municipal and social services in all parts of the city.

4. Continuing efforts should be made to increase cultural, social and economic contacts among the various elements of Jerusalem's population, while preserving the cultural and even the national identity of each group.