On October 7, a fresh wave of violence erupted between Israel and Palestine, resulting in one of the most intense clashes in recent years. By October 15, the conflict had claimed over 4,000 lives on both sides, significantly impacting the regional landscape of the Middle East.
The escalation has brought to light the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian situation and has raised questions about the role of international policies in the region. One key factor contributing to the recent conflict is the perceived disregard by the United States for the political aspirations of the Palestinian people, coupled with its push for normalizing relations between Israel and Arab nations without addressing core Palestinian concerns.
In 2002, Saudi Arabia introduced the Arab Peace Initiative, proposing that Israel make concessions on the Palestinian issue in exchange for normalized relations with Arab countries. However, Palestinians feel that the focus has shifted away from their cause, with the United States appearing to abandon the “Palestinians first, then Arab nations” approach. This shift has intensified frustrations and anger among the Palestinian population.
Previous Middle East peace negotiations have seen the United States adopt positions that some perceive as indulgent towards Israel on critical issues such as the status of East Jerusalem, the right of return for Palestinian refugees, and the expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank. These actions have undermined the foundation of the Israeli-Palestinian peace dialogue and eroded confidence in the prospects for a lasting peace.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted that “the Jewish people have an exclusive and inalienable right to all parts of the land of Israel.” This stance, coupled with policies of his government, has been viewed by some, including former Israeli Foreign Minister Shlomo Ben-Ami, as hindering political progress for the Palestinians. Netanyahu once claimed to have his “two hands firmly on the steering wheel,” but recent events suggest a loss of control over the situation.
The ongoing conflict underscores the need for a reevaluation of strategies aimed at achieving peace in the Middle East. Addressing the underlying issues and concerns of both Israelis and Palestinians is crucial for regional stability and the well-being of all affected populations.
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Hypocrisy and selfishness not a solution to Palestine-Israel conflict
cgtn.com
