Israel: Peace, sweet illusion

The creation of a Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its capital, appears to be the only way to ensure stability in the region. This solution, long advocated by the international community, remains the most realistic way to end a conflict that has lasted too long. King Mohammed VI’s speech last Saturday to the participants of the 15th Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Summit Conference in Banjul, The Gambia, goes in that direction.

The sovereign, as chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, not only unwaveringly supports the Palestinian cause, but also embodies the regional leadership in the search for a peaceful solution to this conflict. Therefore, he emphasizes the urgency of concerted action to stop the aggression on Gaza and promote peace in the region, while calling for “the creation of favorable conditions for the resumption of a genuine peace process, which would lead to an internationally agreed two-state solution.”

The king added that “(…) the discourse on the future of the Gaza Strip is coherent only if hostilities cease and the suffering of the Palestinian people is alleviated.” Indeed, the Gaza Strip is an integral part of the united Palestinian territories and therefore represents the Palestinian cause. It must, therefore, according to the vision of the two-state solution and in accordance with the relevant international resolutions, live in peace and enjoy independence.

However, the path to peace is hampered by the intransigence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. His stubborn refusal to seriously consider a two-state solution shows a political will based on repression rather than “reconciliation”. The consequences of this policy are devastating, with escalating violence that leaves thousands dead and injured, mostly on the Palestinian side. Heartbreaking images of innocent civilians killed in indiscriminate attacks fuel anger and tend to bury any prospect of peace.

Especially since they deepen political divisions and historical rivalries between Israelis and Palestinians. In addition, regional and international geopolitical interests, as well as ongoing disagreements over issues such as borders, settlements and the status of Jerusalem add a complex dimension to the search for a lasting solution. Hence this observation: peace between Israel and Palestine remains only a wish.

D. William