While we're on the subject of this whole Jewish state business ...

There are two great articles out there today about why it is fundamental that the Arabs, and the world in general, recognize Israel as a Jewish state.

The first comes from Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Oren. His article in the New York Times articulately lays out why this is a critical step for peace. A highlight:

Affirmation of Israel’s Jewishness, however, is the very foundation of peace, its DNA. Just as Israel recognizes the existence of a Palestinian people with an inalienable right to self-determination in its homeland, so, too, must the Palestinians accede to the Jewish people’s 3,000-year connection to our homeland and our right to sovereignty there. This mutual acceptance is essential if both peoples are to live side by side in two states in genuine and lasting peace.

The second great argument in favor of this course of action comments from, of all places, Haaaretz. Left-leaning commentator Ari Shavit lays out seven reasons why recognition is crucial. Another highlight:

Second reason: This is the heart of the conflict. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict stems from the fact that for a century, the Jewish national movement and the Palestinian national movement refused to recognize each other. In 1993, Israel recognized the Palestinian people and its rights. But to this day the Palestinians have not recognized the Jewish people and its rights.

Indeed. Hat tip Yaacov Lozowick.