During the latest round of permanent status talks, a complete “contradiction” was evident as both Israeli and Palestinian delegations outlined their positions regarding the “refugees” issue. Whereas the Palestinians asserted that the framework agreement, which is expected to be signed next month, must fully guarantee the refugees’ “right of return,” the Israeli side re-affirmed its clear-cut rejection to any proposals advocating their return to what is now thoroughly “Israel.”

In light of this, MIFTAH stresses the importance attached to the refugees issue both within the contexts of the Peace Process as well the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in general. Any attempts by Israel to undermine the necessity of reaching a just solution to the issue (based on the legal foundations outlined by United Nations Security Council Resolution 194) cannot be accepted and will only contribute to the provocation of further conflict.

A final Palestinian-Israeli peace agreement must deliver a just solution to the refugee issue, and this can be embodied only in the recognition of their right to return to the very land from which they were expelled. Furthermore, Israel must particularly acknowledge its responsibility to the human tragedy it has inflicted on the lives of millions of Palestinian refugees as a result of its occupation of Palestinian land.