Four propositions will govern short-term developments between Israel and West Bank/Gaza Palestinians. First, the parties obviously cannot return to pre-October 7 conditions; second, the Palestinians are not able to develop a democratic State consisting of both the West Bank and Gaza; third, a two-state solution holds the best—and probably the only—prospect for peaceful settlement; and, fourth, Israel and the Palestinians are presently incapable of negotiating a peaceful settlement.

What to do?