There are. I believe. numerous initiatives that can and should be taken by the parties directly and indirectly involved in the Middle East dilemma. The decisions to recognize Israel. establish boundaries. solve the refugee problem. settle the status of Jerusalem and passage through international watersthe five key issues as I perceive themwill come as a result of numerous factors. It is in the interest of all the parties concerned. including the Soviet Union. which now has great influence in the Middle East as well as access to the Mediterranean. to deescalate the arms race and decrease the trend toward military confrontation. The United States should do everything it can privately. and publicly. to seek Soviet agreement in arms limitation that will curtail the endless cycle of military escalation in the area.