Why?

Why did the Baker Commission say that: "The United States cannot achieve its goals in the Middle East unless it deals directly with the Arab-Israeli conflict."

They are not the only ones, it's a commonly seen comment.

Why should anyone give any credence to that statement?

Yes, it would be wonderful if the Palestinians and the Israelis compromised their differences. They would not be killing each other - that's good. The Israelis could help the Palestinians to improve their economy and Arabs would have good jobs and their future would look bright. They would focus on building their nation and stop thinking about rockets and suicide bombings.

Would that in any way ease the civil war in Iraq?

Would that stop Hezbollah from making trouble in Lebanon?

Would that stop al Qaeda from committing terrorism?

Would that stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons?