WASHINGTON -Former Senate Democratic leader George Mitchell, who led an inquiry into seven months of violence in the Middle East, says he is confident Israel and the Palestinians will finally call a halt to their conflict.

The commission Mitchell headed criticized both sides for the fighting that has effectively shelved peacemaking efforts. But the findings have not made him pessimistic.

Asked if he could foresee an end to conflict, Mitchell replied quickly: “Yes, I can.” And he followed that up swiftly with his reasoning.

“It is making life unbearable for people in both societies,” Mitchell said.

“The violence is deepening the hatred and hardening the resolve on both sides. And it has to be brought to end, and they must rebuild confidence and resume negotiations.”