Palestine-Israel Journal: An accumulation of reasons sparked the Intifada and then created a kind of momentum. In your own analysis, do you think that the peace process itself was a reason behind this Intifada?

Khalil Shikaki: There is no doubt that the people’s anger and frustration with the lack of progress in the peace process has damaged the peace process and has caused it to lose its legitimacy in the eyes of the Palestinians. Therefore, the accumulation of deep anger led to more support for confrontation and violence. Sharon’s visit was simply the spark that lit the fuse. Without addressing the fundamental reasons for the anger, this feeling will re-emerge, and there will be no end in sight for the current confrontations.

To read the full interview, click here.

Palestine-Israel Journal: An accumulation of reasons sparked the Intifada and then created a kind of momentum. In your own analysis, do you think that the peace process itself was a reason behind this Intifada?

Khalil Shikaki: There is no doubt that the people’s anger and frustration with the lack of progress in the peace process has damaged the peace process and has caused it to lose its legitimacy in the eyes of the Palestinians. Therefore, the accumulation of deep anger led to more support for confrontation and violence. Sharon’s visit was simply the spark that lit the fuse. Without addressing the fundamental reasons for the anger, this feeling will re-emerge, and there will be no end in sight for the current confrontations.

To read the full interview, click here.