Those political framed "regrets" need to be put in perspective by a simple additional question :what about the missing participants from Gaza ?

Even if wishing to participate they would have been denied by Israel the possibility to do so.

Does the  "regrets"  include  this obstacle to more "human relationships"  , a prerequisite postulated to peace in the middle east ?

 

In regard to the comment above, what is the source for saying that Israel would deny entry to legitimate doctors from Gaza to attend a medical conference? It would be wonderful indeed if Hamas and Gaza were to send doctors to Israel instead of rockets aimed at civilian populations. Dr. Goldhaber's commentary poignantly reminds us that even though there is some level of peace in the Middle East, a real peace has still yet to be attained.

I was wondering if the absence of professionals from Jordan and Egypt had less to do with border crossings than that  they just never sent anyone?? Of course Gazans would be denied entry as their only goal is to drive Israel into the sea.

Israel has a very high level of medical services and research.  I am sure many Arab doctors would be happy to learn from Israelis as well as share their own knowledge IF THEY COULD GO. IF THEIR COUNTRIES OR REGIMES WOULD ALLOW THEM.  Imagine how that would naturally upgrade health services throughout the Middle East. Their regimes, however, are too busy with their own corruption and repression, and blaming Jews and Israelis for all their ills and, of course, the A-to-Z ills of the world. It is so pathetic, and, ultimately, so tragic.