Meaning: The quote you provided is from Natan Sharansky, a prominent Israeli politician, human rights activist, and author. The quote refers to the period following the signing of the Oslo Accords in 1993, a significant milestone in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. In his statement, Sharansky asserts that instead of working towards peace, Yasser Arafat, the leader of the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Palestinian Authority, utilized the resources available to him to stoke animosity and hostility towards Israel.

The Oslo Accords, signed in September 1993, marked the first direct, face-to-face agreement between Israel and the PLO. The accords aimed to establish a framework for the peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and the creation of a Palestinian interim self-government. The historic handshake between Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat on the White House lawn was seen as a symbol of hope and a potential breakthrough in the protracted conflict.

However, as time passed, the implementation of the Oslo Accords faced numerous challenges and setbacks. The quote by Sharansky reflects the disillusionment and frustration felt by many Israelis who had hoped that the accords would lead to a genuine and lasting peace. Sharansky's assertion that Arafat "used all the resources placed at his disposal to fan the flames of hatred against Israel" highlights the perception that rather than embracing the opportunity for peace, Arafat and the Palestinian leadership continued to promote anti-Israeli sentiment and engage in actions that undermined the prospects for reconciliation.

Sharansky's perspective can be understood in the context of the events that unfolded in the years following the signing of the Oslo Accords. Despite initial optimism, the peace process faced significant challenges, including acts of terrorism, violent clashes, and the failure to reach a comprehensive and lasting agreement. These difficulties contributed to a growing sense of mistrust and skepticism on both sides, leading to a breakdown in the peace process and a return to widespread conflict.

Critics of Arafat and the Palestinian leadership point to various actions and statements that they argue perpetuated hostility towards Israel and undermined the prospects for peace. These include Arafat's support for armed resistance, failure to curtail incitement against Israel in Palestinian media and educational materials, and the rejection of peace proposals put forward by Israeli leaders.

It's important to note that interpretations of the Oslo Accords and their aftermath vary widely among different stakeholders, with divergent narratives and perspectives shaping the understanding of events. For many Israelis, the failure to achieve a lasting peace following the Oslo Accords has deepened skepticism about the prospects for reaching a negotiated settlement with the Palestinians. Meanwhile, Palestinians have their own narratives and grievances regarding the impact of Israeli policies and actions on the peace process.

In conclusion, Natan Sharansky's quote encapsulates a perspective on the aftermath of the Oslo Accords, reflecting a viewpoint that accuses Arafat of squandering opportunities for peace and perpetuating hostility towards Israel. The quote underscores the complex and contentious nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with divergent narratives and interpretations shaping the understanding of historical events and their implications for the present and future.