
The “deal of the century” is important in that it is not based on the idea of “land for peace.” In addition, the idea of land swaps, including among populated areas, is very important. The plan addresses Israeli interests in more favorable fashion than any previous plan. At the same time, the plan must be studied carefully. For example, any concession in Jerusalem can only occur following a national referendum and special legislation with a two-thirds majority. From the standpoint of international law, as has been established by the Foreign Ministry legal department, it is not a problem to shift borders. This is also not the same as “transfer.” In this context, particularly troubling is the growing extremism among Arab citizens of Israel. Much more important than a Palestinian partner now is engagement with the moderate Arab states: a total regional agreement is essential. Regarding annexation of the Jordan Valley: as this is decidedly within the Israeli consensus, there is no reason not to implement this, even before the elections.