One of the great figures of our times, for better or for worse, passes away in Paris, France. And it is said, to pass away in Ramadan is truly a blessing by God.

Yasser Arafat was a good man but he was never effective in reaching the much needed peace. Now, perhaps peace can be achieved, if the PLO doesn't crumble under its own weight. And hopefully, somebody with the right kind of mind, probably Prime Minister Qurei, will pursue a peaceful coexistence between Israel and Palestine. Peaceful coexistence between these two states is the only solution to this age old conflict.

With Israel is currently voluntarily withdrawing from a number of areas, the Palestinians and the Arabs need to emulate such gesture. War cannot possibly go on forever. The killing must stop, the hatred must end.

All other Muslim nations need to realize this, regardless the history of the creation of Israel. What has passed has passed. We need to move on and build a new future.

May God bless him.