Olmert demonstrates resolve

Thursday, May 25, 2006 | 7:16 a.m.

In January, shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon slipped into a coma following a massive stroke, there was uncertainty and even anxiety over the prospect for achieving a lasting peace in the Middle East. But, since that time, national elections have been held and the new Israeli prime minster, Ehud Olmert, has demonstrated that he is more than up to the challenge as Sharon's successor.

Olmert, during his visit to Washington this week, showed his willingness to negotiate a successful framework for peace. In a speech before a joint session of Congress, Olmert said that the Palestinians are an "inseparable part" of the land shared with Israel and can prosper - as long as Hamas leaders agree to renounce terrorism and the destruction of Israel.

"A Palestinian leadership that fulfills its commitments and obligations will find us a willing partner in peace," he said. "But if they refuse, we will not give a terrorist regime a veto over progress or allow it to take hope hostage."

Olmert was unmistakable in letting it be known that the moment has arrived for a real dialogue - further delays are unacceptable. "We cannot wait for the Palestinians forever," Olmert said. If the Palestinian leadership isn't ready to be a "partner in peace," Olmert said, then Israel would draw its own borders in the West Bank.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, who previously has indicated a willingness to engage in serious negotiations for a peaceful resolution, has recently been locked in a bitter dispute with Hamas, which now controls the Palestinian legislature. The real question now is whether the Palestinian people are going to throw in their lot with Hamas - a terrorist group that will bring the Palestinians nothing but ruination - or with Abbas, who provides some moderation among Palestinians and offers them hope.

We are confident that Olmert is on the right path. The next move - and whether a peace accord can be achieved - rests with the Palestinians.