Former Mossad Intelligence Agency Director Meir Dagan explains that he is not too optimistic regarding renewed diplomatic talks between Israel and the PA (Palestinian Authority).

Dagan believes the current formula will not yield the desired results for he feels behind-the-scenes talks should have begun between Israel and the Arab League. Dagan explains the future of Yerushalayim is a matter of concern to the international Arab community and not just the PA, as is the two-state solution. Dagan believes that at the very least Israel should have involved Jordan and Saudi Arabia to ensure there is Arab world backing for the process for going it alone with the PA is unlikely to result in success.

Dagan feels that a growing international Muslim community; a weakened PA; and the Iranian threat make it in both the interest of Israel and the PA for talks to succeed. Despite this, Dagan feels the current formula does not provide much optimism as the two sides are going it alone once again.

Commenting on regional current events Dagan feels Israel should be worried about the Syrian army while hoping that Assad is out of the picture as soon as possible. Regarding Egypt, he feels the military rule is in Israel’s interest and as far as Jordan goes, he views the Hashemite Kingdom as being solid and its leadership firmly in place.

Stating he is not planning to enter the political arena Dagan points out that Israel may not forget the Iranian issue. “At present, Israel should not attack Iran. We have not yet reached that point. If the situation changes Western intelligence will be aware of this. An assault against Iran today will result in unifying the Iranian people against Israel, which today are disunited, and this includes war. Today there would be no gain.”

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)