Quote of the day:
"The contemporary Israeli leader is one of the jailers, not one of the jailed."
--Yaron London writes that Israeli leaders need to look at Frederik Willem de Klerk for inspiration, not Nelson Mandela.
- The forgotten partner - De Klerk and Mandela (Yaron London, Yedioth) "...De Klerk envisioned the future picture of a lack of a solution: The Black's rebellion will increase, the international boycott will become harsher and the day was not far when exports would stop and investors would run...Nelson Mandela is a character who inspires every human, but he cannot serve as a political guide for a contemporary Israeli leader. A contemporary Israeli leader is one of the jailers, not one of the imprisoned. And so, (Frederik Willem) de Klerk, whose design and the challenges he faced are more than a bit similar to those that the Prime Minister in Israel struggles with. During Mandela's days of mourning, when his achievements are praised, it's worthwhile to look also at the actions of his partner.
- Accounts of Palestinian teen's death differ - Wajih Wajdi al-Ramahi, 15, was buried in Jalazun refugee camp after being shot in the back on Saturday. (Haaretz+)
- IDF seized West Bank house despite court ruling for Palestinian owners - The house, which was separated from its village by a bypass road built near the settlement of Ofra, is currently used as a yeshiva by settlers. (Haaretz+)
- Israel may scale back chemical warfare defenses - Army sets up committee to examine aspects of defense from WMD; Syrian disarmament is progressing but there is concern of chemical terrorism. (Haaretz+)
- Netanyahu cancels South Africa trip over high travel costs - Prime Minister was meant to join 150,000 people at memorial event for the late South African President Nelson Mandela. (Haaretz+ and Israel Hayom)
- WHO concerned over humanitarian health crisis in Gaza - Over 30 percent of medicines and 50 percent of medical disposables are out of stock in Gaza, and large generators used to power hospitals during 14-hour power cuts have frequent breakdowns. WHO said. (Maan)
- Peres says willing to meet Iranian counterpart Rohani - President says Israel does not view Iran as an 'enemy', adds that 'objective is to turn enemies into friends.' (Haaretz+ and Ynet)
