The definition is not important. Yes intifada, no intifada -- Jerusalem is burning. And if immediate security, political and diplomatic steps are not taken, this fire could spread across the Arab and Muslim world. This is a deep concern for the Israel Police, Shin Bet security agency and Israeli political leaders. Everyone is scratching their heads, trying to figure out how to deal with this conflagration, so it does not get out of control. The first basic insight is that something fundamental has changed in recent months, which has lead to a dramatic rise in the number of attacks in the capital (from 126 attacks in 2013 -- including stone throwing -- to 257 attacks in 2014, with two months still remaining in the year). This dramatic increase in terrorism requires, first and foremost, a security response -- more forces deployed, more intelligence gathered and more punishment enacted. Those who conduct attacks, certainly if they are Israeli residents, must know there is a price to be paid. This has a two-fold effect. First, it exacerbates the dilemma facing would-be terrorists, thereby reducing the number of attacks. And second, it elevates the sense of security felt by the Jewish residents of Jerusalem. But the security response is only part (and not the main one) of neutralizing this ticking bomb. There are too many factors stirring the pot -- the Palestinian Authority, Hamas, the Islamic Movement in Israel and, unfortunately, quite a few of our own politicians. Some of these groups are a lost cause. Hamas and Sheikh Raed Salah (head of the northern branch of the Islamic Movement in Israel) will continue to do everything wrong here. Some of the others can be dealt with. It is vital that the U.S. and moderate Arab states call on PA President Mahmoud Abbas to stop making dangerous and provocative statements. Also, Israeli politicians must talk less about the matter, particularly at this time. If this does not happen, the situation will remain precarious. Another attack, another act of revenge, and the whole thing could explode. Jerusalem is not just a issue, it is THE issue. It could lead to the loss of all restraints, allowing crazies on both sides freedom of action. Whoever wants to prevent this must act today, with a tough, but mainly wise, hand.
