The Future of a Two-State Solution

Publication Date: February 2009

Publisher: Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs

Author(s): Giora Eiland

Research Area: International relations

Keywords: israel; west bank; hamas; palestinian authority

Type: Report

Coverage: Israel Egypt Palestine

Abstract:

The principle of land swaps has already been discussed as part of the two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. Why can't we have multilateral swaps between Israel, Palestine, and Egypt? If we make Gaza double or triple its current size by adding an additional 600 sq. km. of territory from Egyptian Sinai, this could give Gaza the space it needs for economic expansion. At the same time, Israel needs 600 sq. km. in the West Bank because the 1967 line is unacceptable from a security point of view. In return, Israel could give to Egypt 600 sq. km. in the Negev in southern Israel.