The Israeli Palestinian Conflict: Is There a Zone of Possible Agreement ('Zopa')?

Posted: 6 Feb 2015

See all articles by Robert H. Mnookin

Robert H. Mnookin

Harvard Law School; Program on Negotiation

Date Written: February 4, 2015

Abstract

Is a negotiated resolution of the Israeli Palestinian conflict possible? Can the parties fashion a comprehensive permanent status agreement at the bargaining table that puts an end to the dispute? To put the question in the jargon of negotiation theory: is there a Zone of Possible Agreement, or “ZOPA”? The article seeks to determine whether there is a ZOPA in regards to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and if so, the manner in which it can be emphasized and utilized.

The first part uses a simple example to define ZOPA, along with other basic negotiation terms. The second part refers to the feasibility of a ZOPA in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the final section identifies the barriers to an agreement.

Suggested Citation

Mnookin, Robert H., The Israeli Palestinian Conflict: Is There a Zone of Possible Agreement ('Zopa')? (February 4, 2015). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2560835

Robert H. Mnookin (Contact Author)

Harvard Law School ( email )

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Cambridge, MA 02138
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617-496-3777 (Fax)

Program on Negotiation ( email )

Cambridge, MA
United States

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