Michael J. STRAUSS
Executive Summary: In order to explore the viability of a Palestinian State as part of a two-State solution, it is necessary to focus on practical and political challenges, including the presence of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The rental of territories between States could be a potential solution, which would allow a sovereign State to lease areas specific to another State, thus providing flexibility in the management of sovereign rights. Historically, territorial leases have been used to resolve conflicts, such as between Israel and Jordan in 1994, and similar proposals have been made for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Professor Strauss suggests a long-term lease model that could maintain the status quo while transforming the legal nature of settlements, making them legal under international law. An example is the lease of Guantanamo Bay by Cuba in the United States. The payment of an annual rent by Israel to Palestine could finance non-military development projects, thus enhancing cooperation between the two States. Technology transfers, such as agricultural equipment, could also be included in the agreement. Obstacles could be overcome by good administration and attractive conditions. A territorial lease could thus serve as a starting point for improving bilateral relations and creating opportunities for long-term cooperation.
Keywords: Israel, Palestine, Near East, Palestinian State, Colonies, West Bank, Gaza,
Land lease, Guantanamo Bay, Technologies, Rent, Land rental, Sovereignty,
Sovereign Rights, Status quo, International Law, Cooperation.
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