**A Forgotten Map: The Two-State Solution That Could Have Changed History**

**A recently unveiled map by former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert reveals a largely undisclosed two-state solution that could have transformed the political landscape in the Middle East. Presented in 2008, the plan remains a symbol of lost opportunities amidst ongoing conflict.**

In a groundbreaking revelation, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has unveiled the long-rumored map of his two-state solution that he presented to Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas in 2008. "In the next 50 years, you will not find one Israeli leader that will propose to you what I propose to you now," he urged Abbas during their meeting, which many believe could have altered the fate of the region.

The plan, featuring a Palestinian state encompassing over 94% of the occupied West Bank, also included significant territorial adjustments to accommodate major Israeli settlement blocs. Olmert proposed annexing 4.9% of the West Bank in exchange for a concession of Israeli territory along Gaza's borders, ultimately connecting the two Palestinian territories through infrastructure such as tunnels or highways.

This revelation comes as part of the new documentary series "Israel and the Palestinians: The Road to 7th October," directed by Norma Percy, where Olmert finally shares the map he once described in private, saying, "This is the first time that I expose this map to the media."

A critical aspect of Olmert's proposal addressed the contentious status of Jerusalem, envisioning the city as a shared capital for both nations while establishing a special committee to manage key religious sites. The implications of this approach, had it come to fruition, would have been monumental for the Jewish settlements scattered across the West Bank.

Unfortunately, despite the seriousness of the proposal, the meeting ended without an agreement, as Abbas requested additional time to consult his advisors before signing. Olmert insisted on having a signed commitment before handing over a copy of the map, leading to a situation where both leaders left with different expectations.

As Olmert faced escalating pressures from his domestic political landscape, including a corruption scandal and ongoing violence, the climate for a peace deal waned. His resignation presented further complications, with Benjamin Netanyahu's subsequent rise to power marking a significant shift away from the aspirations of a Palestinian state.

Reflecting on that pivotal moment nearly two decades later, Olmert expressed regret that Abbas didn't seize the opportunity, suggesting that had the deal been signed, it could have shifted the blame if successive leaders chose to abandon the peace process.

With each missed opportunity throughout the history of Israeli-Palestinian relations, the sentiments echo the earlier observations by Israeli diplomat Abba Eban, noting that the Palestinians "never miss an opportunity to miss an opportunity." However, the complexities of the political landscape reveal that both parties bear responsibilities, and the stars have repeatedly failed to align for a lasting peace.

As the world watches the ongoing conflict unfold, Olmert's map now resurfaces as a poignant reminder of past endeavors toward reconciliation and the enduring struggle for peace in a land divided by decades of conflict.