The goal of peace talks is to establish a way forward that clears obstacles and meets shared needs. When this happens, anachronistic ways of relating give way to more fuller and inclusive perspectives. This is true whether two individuals decide to divorce, one religion accepts another, or a country and its neighbours pull down the wall between them.
It is easy to focus on the stumbling blocks that prevent a negotiated settlement, but these issues are just one part of the story. Forces on both sides of the conflict have emerged that cast doubt, or plainly reject, a negotiated solution. Those forces have been encouraged by the rise of Hamas, and by the election of right-wing Israeli parties.
Negotiation requires an investment of time and money. To be successful, the process must involve a wide range of stakeholders. It also helps if there are multiple mediators. This increases the chances of success and allows them to explore options and develop creative solutions that can be difficult to find alone.
Preparatory activities such as conflict analysis, fact-finding, and the establishment of thematic working groups – e.g. legal, business, administrative and logistical – can help establish the basis for substantive discussions at the negotiation table. These groups could be facilitated by individual states, multilateral actors such as the United Nations, or large civil society organisations with the relevant expertise. They should meet on a regular basis to prepare the agenda items to be negotiated in the main peace negotiations.