"Peace processes are not about the absence of war; they are about the presence of peace."
This quote by Dennis Ross emphasizes that peace processes aim for more than just the cessation of hostilities, but rather strive to establish a stable, positive, and sustainable environment. Peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but also the presence of understanding, cooperation, and mutual respect among parties. The goal of peace processes is to build and nurture these qualities for the long term.
"Negotiations have a life of their own."
The quote "Negotiations have a life of their own" emphasizes that negotiations are not just a simple exchange or transaction, but rather dynamic processes that evolve independently. It suggests that the progress and outcomes of negotiations cannot be fully predicted or controlled by the parties involved due to various factors such as changing circumstances, emotions, or new information. This underscores the importance of flexibility, adaptability, and active listening in successful negotiations.
"The ultimate test of peacemaking is not how much you give away, but whether what remains is worth preserving."
This quote by Dennis Ross emphasizes that successful peacemaking should not be measured solely by concessions made during negotiations, but rather by the value and viability of what remains after those concessions. In other words, it's essential to find a peace agreement that leaves behind something meaningful and sustainable, ensuring the long-term preservation of the parties involved. A peace process that prioritizes compromise over the integrity of the remaining elements may ultimately fail due to dissatisfaction or instability. Therefore, the quality of what remains after negotiations is crucial in determining the success of peacemaking efforts.
"Peace is hard work, and it's a long-term investment in the future."
This quote by Dennis Ross suggests that achieving peace requires dedicated effort over an extended period. It implies that peace is not a fleeting or temporary state, but a continuous process requiring commitment and persistent work. Furthermore, peace is an investment in our future, as it lays the foundation for stability, prosperity, and mutual understanding among nations. The quote underscores the importance of making long-term commitments to resolving conflicts and building relationships, rather than expecting quick fixes or easy solutions.
"In the Middle East, there are no sides; there are only interests."
This quote suggests that in the complex politics of the Middle East, nations, groups, or individuals may not align neatly into traditional categories of "good" or "evil" sides, but rather they each have their own distinct interests that guide their actions. It's a reminder to understand and acknowledge these diverse interests when attempting to resolve conflicts in this region. The quote implies a call for nuanced diplomacy, recognizing the complexity of the issues at hand and avoiding oversimplifications or assumptions about the parties involved.
You don't have any communication between the Israelis and the Iranians. You have all sorts of local triggers for conflict. Having countries act on a hair trigger - where they can't afford to be second to strike - the potential for a miscalculation or a nuclear war through inadvertence is simply too high.
- Dennis Ross
It has been an honor to work in the Obama Administration and to serve this President, particularly during a period of unprecedented change in the broader Middle East. Obviously, there is still work to do but I promised my wife I would return to government for only two years and we both agreed it is time to act on my promise.
- Dennis Ross
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