Meaning: This quote by Yitzhak Rabin, the former Prime Minister of Israel, encapsulates his vision for peace and coexistence between Israel and the Palestinian people. It reflects his commitment to negotiating with Chairman Yasser Arafat, the leader of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), in an effort to secure a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Rabin's words convey a sense of hope and determination as he seeks to establish a framework for two separate entities, Israel and a Palestinian state, living alongside each other in peace.

Yitzhak Rabin was a key figure in the pursuit of peace between Israel and the Palestinians. His willingness to engage in negotiations with Chairman Arafat and the PLO marked a significant shift in Israeli policy towards recognizing the need for dialogue and compromise in order to achieve lasting peace in the region. Rabin's approach was informed by a pragmatic understanding of the complexities and challenges inherent in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and his efforts to pursue a negotiated settlement were driven by a desire to secure a better future for both Israelis and Palestinians.

The quote also underscores Rabin's acknowledgment of the Palestinian people's legitimate aspirations and the need to address their national rights. By referring to Arafat as the representative of the Palestinian people, Rabin recognized the importance of engaging with the legitimate leadership of the Palestinian national movement in order to reach a comprehensive and sustainable peace agreement. This recognition of the Palestinian leadership and people as legitimate partners in the pursuit of peace was a significant departure from previous Israeli approaches and signaled a willingness to address the core grievances of the Palestinian population.

Rabin's vision for coexistence between Israel and a Palestinian state reflects a commitment to the principle of two states living side by side in peace and security. His reference to "Israel as a Jewish state" and the "Palestinian state" reflects an understanding of the need for both nations to have their own independent and viable states, with the recognition of Israel as a Jewish state being a fundamental aspect of Israel's national identity and security. Rabin's vision encompassed the idea of mutual recognition, respect for each other's national aspirations, and the establishment of peaceful and secure borders for both entities.

It is important to note that Rabin's pursuit of peace was not without controversy and opposition, both within Israeli society and among the Palestinian leadership. The Oslo Accords, which Rabin signed with Arafat in 1993, faced significant challenges and criticism from hardline factions on both sides. Despite these challenges, Rabin remained committed to the pursuit of peace and continued to advocate for a negotiated settlement that would bring an end to the conflict and pave the way for a better future for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

Tragically, Yitzhak Rabin's life was cut short when he was assassinated by an extremist opposed to his peace efforts in 1995. His untimely death was a devastating blow to the peace process, and the loss of his leadership and vision was deeply felt by those who believed in the possibility of a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In conclusion, Yitzhak Rabin's quote encapsulates his commitment to pursuing peace and coexistence between Israel and the Palestinian people. His willingness to engage in negotiations with Chairman Arafat and the PLO and his vision for two separate entities living side by side in peace reflects a pragmatic and hopeful approach to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Rabin's legacy as a statesman and peacemaker continues to inspire those who believe in the possibility of a negotiated settlement and a better future for both Israelis and Palestinians.