“Jerusalem [lies] literally and figuratively at the center of the Israeli-Palestinian dispute.” It rests at the heart and soul of two peoples, embodying their national and religious self-identity. Central to it are the iconic holy sites of their respective faiths. Over time, those sites have become the focal points of attention and the emotional flash points for their conflict.

Developing a legal regime to protect the holy sites is not a panacea for all of the ills in this tragedy. The killings and destruction on both sides have undoubtedly taken their toll, creating wounds, open and scarred, that will take a long time to heal. Nonetheless, the process of reconciliation must begin somewhere. They are each realities on the ground. They are two peoples condemned – or blessed – to share a common homeland. A path to peace must be found.

The holy sites, because they have become the emotional and religious icons of the conflict, represent a daunting challenge. Some might claim they are insuperable. They also represent a profound opportunity. While overall conflict reaches all aspects of life for each side, ranging from the economic to the social and political – and life itself – the central concern for the holy sites is that they be protected and honored. Moreover, the religions of the Book to which they are central are not only potential sources of provocation in support of the conflict, they offer insights and values that urge peace and can motivate people of the faith to take the painful steps necessary to achieve that goal.