In the midst of escalating violence and tragedy in the Middle East, it is imperative to confront the stark realities and moral dilemmas that surround the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The recent unprecedented attack by Hamas, which claimed the lives of some 700 Israelis, serves as a grim reminder of the unsustainability of the situation in the occupied and blockaded Palestinian territories. Tensions had been simmering in the West Bank and Gaza Strip for months, with daily violence that went largely ignored by the Israeli government and by the world. This volatile situation erupted into the Hamas attack inside Israel. It has, in turn, further endangered Palestinian lives as Israel, in turn, responds with force, disregarding civilian casualties. The Palestinian territories have endured the longest occupation in modern history, a situation characterized by the expansion of Israeli settlements, security barriers, checkpoints, and the frequent use of force. This status quo has radicalized Palestinians and strengthened Hamas. Israel has declared war on Hamas before, but past military operations have done little to weaken the group.
In recent years, geopolitical realignments in the region have taken place, such as the Israel-Arab reconciliation and the Iran-Saudi détente. Yet, these developments have conspicuously skirted the core issue—the occupation of Palestine. This original sin of West Asia continues to fester, with no end in sight.
To achieve lasting peace and stability in the region, it is imperative that the international community addresses the Palestinian question. Military interventions alone are cosmetic solutions that do not address the root cause of the conflict. The United States, as a key player in the region, must take a bold and courageous step forward.
Some opinion in the western press has urged the US President Joe Biden to recognize an independent and democratic Palestinian state living alongside a secure Israel, soon after the violence subsides. It is argued that once a Palestinian state under occupation gains international recognition, the negotiations between Israeli and Palestinian representatives for a lasting resolution can commence.
This proposal may appear idealistic in the current climate of conflict and distrust, but it is the only viable path forward. The two-state solution, despite its challenges and setbacks, enjoys higher support among both Israelis and Palestinians than any other alternative. The status quo is unsustainable and detrimental to all parties involved. To avoid further bloodshed and suffering, it is imperative that we tackle the root of the problem—the unresolved Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is time to shift our focus towards a future where two states, Israel and Palestine, coexist in peace, security, and prosperity.
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