A poll of 100 US academics with advanced degrees in Middle East studies reveals concern over proposed Israeli plans to withdraw from Gaza. Negotiations underway between the White House and an Israeli delegation are discussing possible US recognition or approval of Israeli annexation of territories and settlements seized by Israel in the 1967 war. In exchange, Israel would unilaterally withdraw from Gaza.
96% of the Middle East experts polled believe the US has neither the authority nor the international credibility to approve such an arrangement. 81% believe such a deal could increase terror attacks in the Middle East while 75% believe attacks on the US would increase if such an exchange is approved by the Bush administration.
Polled academics observe that any US decisions about territory would likely consider the security of Israelis and effect on the US led “war on terror.” However 70% responded that lobby-driven American domestic politics would ultimately determine the outcome of such a swap. 66% believe that calculations about the 2004 presidential elections are a major factor in the current negotiations.
