For half a century we have been living with the false hope that we will get something. We have got nothing.

We hope that all these kinds of conferences fail - because that will give us the right to shout out loud and make the world listen to us.

The conference had no basis for success. The Palestinian delegation certainly did not represent all the Palestinians.

Mr Abbas represents himself and a few dinosaurs from prehistoric times. That's it.

MEET THE PANEL Name: Faysal Lives: Latakia, Syria Works: Shipping analyst

Q: Do you believe all three leaders, George Bush, Ehud Olmert and Mahmoud Abbas are acting in good faith?

A: In as much as each one is looking to further his interests and boost his image, yes, I think they are acting in good faith. But acting in good faith for finding true peace? I'm sorry to say it: no.

Even if they felt there was a chance of progress, inside they must know they are mocking the world and themselves by chasing an illusion.

Q: Do you believe that Ehud Olmert and Mahmoud Abbas are able to make the sort of compromises President Bush has referred to?

A: No, I don't believe they are able to make compromises. Even if they were, those compromises would not travel further than the USA. They would remain on paper only - expensive paper kept in a gold folder decorating the hall of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis.

MIDEAST CONFERENCE VIEWS Jonathan, Israel Faysal, Syria Nadim, Jordan Gilad, Israel Abdullah, Gaza

Q: Did you hear anything new from the leaders that gives you cause for optimism?

A: Do you take me for an idiot? Please give me a break! What is this optimism you're talking about? What optimism could I have as long as I'm watching Olmert's soldiers slaying my people in Gaza and West Bank? What optimism could I show while I'm listening, during the meeting, to some Zionist in Israel declaring that Olmert must be sued and jailed for the shameful concessions and promises he's giving in Annapolis?

How likely is it do you think that the Palestinians and the Israelis can agree on a final deal by the end of 2008?

A: I do not believe they are able to reach agreement at all, so reaching it within a year? That's absurd!

Q: What are the consequences for Israel and the Palestinians if this becomes another failed attempt at a final settlement?

A: Abbas, Bush and Olmert are failed leaders; Annapolis is a failed meeting. The consequences will be the same bad situation for the Palestinians. Israelis are unaware of the price they're paying just to keep themselves in a state of war, because they are not aware of what peace is.

The general mood of the Arab street is all for peace - but not at any cost.

Liberation of the Golan Heights is Syria's top priority, but not at the expense of the nation's dignity.