The IMEU presents a collection of commentary and analysis on the results of Israel's recent election - which saw a dramatic shift in power to right-wing parties and will see Benjamin Netanyahu serve his second term as prime minister - from a Palestinian perspective.


Netanyahu and the 'future of the peace process'
Ramzy Baroud, The Palestine Chronicle

While Netanyahu is indeed a right-wing ideologue, he hardly differs, regarding issues pertinent to the peace process, from his predecessors. More, one fails to appreciate the risks facing the peace process, considering that there is no such process, as Israel continues with its military onslaughts and illegal settlement expansion unabated. Read more.


No pretences
Khaled Amayreh, Al-Ahram Weekly

All observers agree that Likud leader Benyamin Netanyahu's coalition will bring efforts to achieve peace to a complete halt, though they will continue to play the game of negotiations - and many believe that Avigdor Lieberman as the international face of Israel will backfire because of his demagoguery and racist discourse. Read more.


The return of Benjamin Netanyahu
Mustafa Barghouthi, The Huffington Post

The return of Benjamin Netanyahu of the right-wing Likud party does not bode well for the prospects for a comprehensive and lasting peace between Israel and Palestine. Throughout his campaign, the cornerstone of Netanyahu's policy toward the 'Palestinian Question' suggests an intention to deepen the conflict rather than solve it. Read more.


Where is the left in Israel?
Newsweek

This is not just a move to the right - this is a move towards extremism. When you have a person like the new parliamentary kingmaker Avigdor Lieberman, who openly advocates ethnic cleansing, that is an unhealthy sign. Occupation corrupts Israel, and it corrupts the Israelis. Read more.