Political analysts, public opinion shapers and civil society leaders at a Geneva Initiative conference in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, November 18th, called for intensifying Palestinian efforts in the negotiation process, mainly by involving Palestinian bodies abroad in the process.

The call came in a one-day conference entitled "The Negotiation Process: Future Scenarios" held by the Palestinian Peace Coalition-Geneva Initiative in Al-Salam Hotel in Gaza City. Dr. Mukhaimer Abu Sa'da, professor of political science in Azhar University, and Mr. Talal Okal, political activist and writer and Hasan El Khashef, spoke at the conference before dozens of political activist, civil society leaders, and media specialists.

In his presentation before the conference, Abu Sa'da reviewed the different stages of negotiations with Israel, while tackling the main points of disagreement like the questions of refugees, Jerusalem and settlements. Abu Sa'da stressed that huge efforts are needed to bridge wide gaps between the two sides.

On the issue of settlements, Abu Sa'da stated that Israel has constructed a network of roads to create a new status on the ground, the issue which should be refused by Palestinians. He stated Palestinians should insist on withdrawal of all settlement with a margin of flexibility concerning the principle of land swap".

Hasan Al Kashef warned of the risks of freezing the negotiation process due to the Israeli elections. He emphasized that "the American elections, Israeli elections and the Palestinian internal split all may lead to the freeze of the negotiation process."

Al Kashef stressed that the Arab Peace Initiative would be the best model for solving the conflict. He stated that the API corresponds with all peace deals, and constitutes a translation of the International resolutions. He added that "there are even positive signals by Israel towards the same."

Al Kashef called for building new strategy aiming to reunify the Palestinians, mobilizing the Arab efforts towards one position and enhancing the relationship with the peace forces around the world.

In his presentation on the American role in the Middle East peace process, Talal Okal stated that the American role is retreating back, while this will lead into a stronger role for other payers, mainly Europe.

Okal stated that there is now an international interest in the peace process, mainly following Annapolis Conference and the continued effort by the Quartet. Okal stated that both Palestinians and Israelis may return to the Taba Understandings as a framework for the process.

Okal criticized the voices which claim that negotiation with Israel is a compromise by the Palestinians.