We've got Publius lining up with Tom, and Ed lining up with Bowzer!

Is it too soon for a group hug?

I am with you on this issue. The longer a settlement is delayed, the worse things will get. "Cracking down", in my opinion, will not work. It only serves to enhance the effects of the oppression that is already in place. It turns Palestinians who would steer clear of the conflict into patriots, and increases the number of combatants.

Israel has not dealt fairly, and has broken every agreement it has made (except the one with Egypt, I guess). Has anyone ever tallied up whether the illegal settlement-building preceded the resumption of terrorism or vice versa, after each of the many agreements were signed?