Iqra Tariq
The Israel-Palestine conflict remains a complex and intractable issue, with both sides deeply entrenched in their positions, and that the international community needs to take a more proactive and engaged role in finding a peaceful resolution. The conflict is a long-standing and deeply complex issue in the Middle East, with roots that date decadesback, has resulted in significant violence and suffering for Palestine. It is a multifaceted and complex conflict involving political, territorial, religious, and cultural dimensions, and has deep historical and emotional roots for both Israelis and Palestinians. Palestinians have faced restrictions on movement, lack of access to basic services, and economic challenges, while Israelis have faced security concerns and the threat of violence. The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, a densely populated Palestinian territory, has been particularly dire, with limited access to water, electricity, healthcare, and education. In recent years, there have been renewed calls for a negotiated settlement and a two-state solution, where Israel and Palestine can coexist as independent states, living side by side in peace and security. However, achieving a lasting peace agreement that addresses the complex and multifaceted issues of the conflict remains a significant challenge.
The world has taken a more assertive stance on the issue. The United States, under the Trump administration, recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and moved its embassy there, which was seen as a departure from the longstanding international consensus that the status of Jerusalem should be resolved through negotiations between the parties. This move was met with widespread condemnation from the international community, as it was seen as prejudging the outcome of peace talks and undermining the prospects for a two-state solution. The Biden administration has taken a more nuanced approach, expressing support for a two-state solution but also recognizing Israel’s right to self-defense and calling for an end to violence on both sides.Furthermore, Many Arab nations have condemned Israel’s actions and expressed support for Palestine. Egypt, Jordan, and Qatar have been working to broker a ceasefire between the two sides.
The EU has called for a de-escalation of the conflict and has expressed concern about the situation in East Jerusalem. The EU has also called for an immediate end to the eviction of Palestinian families from their homes in East Jerusalem. The Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have also criticized Israel’s actions and accused the country of violating international law. international law and further undermines the possibility of a two-state solution. In addition to diplomatic efforts, there have been calls for accountability and justice for human rights abuses committed by Israel. The Israeli government has been violating international law, including through its occupation of Palestinian territories, construction of settlements, and use of excessive force against Palestinian protesters. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has launched investigations into war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by Israel. However, many biases have been observed in favor of Israel. Civil society organizations, human rights groups, and activists around the world have also played a significant role in raising awareness about the oppressions committed by Israel, advocating for the rights of Palestinians, and promoting peaceful and just solutions. The current situation in the conflict is characterized by deep-seated animosity, violence, and tensions done by Israel. There have been recurrent outbreaks of violence, including armed clashes, rocket attacks, bombings, and protests, resulting in casualties in Palestinian territory.
The situation has led to the loss of many lives, including civilians, and has caused significant suffering and humanitarian crises in the region. Palestinians continue to face systemic discrimination, forced displacement, and occupation by Israel in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the blockade of the Gaza Strip. The construction of Israeli settlements in the occupied territories has been a major point of contention. Palestinians have engaged in protests, acts of resistance, and occasional acts of violence, while Israel has pursued a policy of military occupation, settlement expansion, and tight control over Palestinian territories. The lack of progress in peace negotiations and the absence of a viable peace process have led to cycles of violence and mistrust, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of property, and human suffering.
The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting to discuss the escalating violence between Israel and Palestine, UN envoy calls for greater effort towards peace amid mounting violence. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a cessation of hostilities and urged both sides to avoid civilian casualties. However, the US has been criticized for blocking a UN Security Council statement that called for a ceasefire. The International Criminal Court has also opened an investigation into alleged war crimes committed by Israel and Hamas. However, progress towards a two-state solution has been slow, and there is a growing sense of pessimism about its feasibility due to the changing realities on the ground, including the expansion of Israeli settlements, the lack of trust between the parties, and the absence of meaningful peace talks. Finding a lasting solution to the conflict has proven to be challenging. There are deep-seated historical, political, religious, and social issues that contribute to the complexity of the conflict. The recent global response towards the Palestine-Israel conflict has been one of concern and condemnation. The world’s response has been mixed, with various efforts to promote peace and dialogue, but finding a lasting solution remains elusive.