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Israeli Security Fence Architect: Why The Barrier Had to Be Built

Much like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the story of the security fence between Israel and the West Bank consists of two different narratives, each claiming to be the more accurate, writes Col. (Res.) Dr. Danny Tirza.  As head of the military body in charge of planning its route, he says the battle against terror may be won, but the war over public opinion is lost.
A Jewish settler participating in a drill held by the settler's security response teams, speaks to girls through a fence in the West Bank settlement of Kiryat Arba September 14, 2011. The drill simulated violence that could erupt ahead of the upcoming Palestinian bid for statehood at the United Nations. REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun (WEST BANK - Tags: POLITICS CIVIL UNREST)

Much like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the story of the security fence between Israel and the West Bank consists of two different narratives, each claiming to be the ultimate, truthful account. As head of the military body in charge of planning its route, and a member of negotiation teams with the Palestinians over the past two decades, I have come to see the situation in a more nuanced light.

The Palestinian terror onslaught that began in September 2000, and raged on until 2006, has been obliterated from our collective memory all too readily. We have unwittingly adopted its Palestinian name, the Second Intifada, thus actually accepting the view that confirms Palestinian valor in steadfast resistance, and legitimate opposition, to an Israeli occupation.

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