Dr Vassilia Orfanou, PhD, Post Doc
Writes for the Headline Diplomat eMagazine
Opinion piece
Introduction
Amid the enduring turmoil between Israel and Palestine, a haunting silence pervades the quest for peace. This silence, however, is not an absence of conflict but a breeding ground for violence. Short-term, violence brings a temporary win for the ill-hearted. Such a perpetuating conflict though can only escalate into a future conflict. The geopolitical situation between these two nations demands a nuanced approach, and herein lies the essence of diplomacy. As tensions escalate and history hangs heavy over the region, the need for diplomatic intervention becomes not just apparent but imperative. This article ventures into the heart of the Israel-Palestine conflict, ultimately underscoring the vital role diplomacy plays in forging a path toward lasting resolution. It beckons us to explore the successes, challenges, and lessons learned from diplomatic endeavors, urging a renewed commitment to a dialogue-driven future that could bridge the profound abyss that separates these two nations.
Understanding diplomacy in conflict resolution
In the heart of chaos, amidst Israel and Palestine, diplomacy stands as an anchor, its potency a beacon of hope amid escalating tensions. Throughout history, it’s been the force that sparked peace talks and untangled the most entrenched conflicts. In the current maelstrom, diplomacy becomes not just crucial but a lifeline, a means to deescalate, address grievances, and ardently forge compromises for a resolution that lingers beyond the immediate storm. The power of diplomacy is not just strategic; it’s deeply emotional—a call to break the chains of conflict and usher in a future where peace prevails over turmoil.
The role of diplomacy in the Israel-Palestine conflict
The Israel-Palestine conflict has deep historical and geopolitical roots, making it extremely challenging to resolve. Diplomacy has been instrumental to de-escalate a crisis for the longest time, providing a platform for both sides to voice their concerns, engage in negotiations, and work towards a peaceful resolution.
Through diplomacy, both sides have addressed the core issues at the heart of the conflict, including borders, settlements, security, and the status of Jerusalem. Both Israel and Palestine have been brought to the negotiating table, enabling discussions aimed at finding common ground and resolving long-standing disputes.
Progress has been slow. Setbacks are frequent. The conflict is deep-seated. But diplomacy remains an essential tool in fostering peace, promoting understanding, and bridging the trust between the two conflicting parties.
Historical examples of successful diplomacy in the region
Over the years, diplomatic efforts have sustained peace. The Oslo Accords, signed in 1993 laid the foundation for a peace process aiming to establish a Palestinian self-governing authority and paving the way for a final status agreement.
As a next step, the Camp David Summit in 2000 brought together Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, to reach a comprehensive peace agreement. Despite that the summit ended without an agreement, it highlighted the potential for diplomatic negotiations to bridge the divide between the two nations.
During the Annapolis Conference in 2007, Israeli and Palestinian leaders recommitted to the goal of a two-state solution and agreed to resume negotiations.
Surely, these initiatives show the potential of diplomacy. But they also underscore how difficult and rather challenging it is to reach a lasting peace agreement.
Constant obstacles and challenges overshadow diplomatic efforts
Primary among the obstacles is the profound mistrust entrenched between the two parties, nurtured by decades of violence, unfulfilled promises, and unsuccessful negotiations. This longstanding mistrust poses a formidable challenge, impeding the establishment and sustenance of the essential foundations for effective diplomacy in the long term.
Moreover, the continuous construction of settlements in the occupied territories serves as a substantial impediment to progress. The proliferation of Israeli settlements in both the West Bank and East Jerusalem adds complexity to negotiations and weakens the prospects of a viable future Palestinian state. This dynamic not only disrupts diplomatic initiatives but also heightens the difficulties inherent in fostering a constructive dialogue between the conflicting parties.
Political divisions within both Israel and Palestine also pose challenges to diplomacy. Internal disagreements, power struggles, and changing leadership can hinder the continuity and effectiveness of diplomatic efforts. These internal dynamics add another layer of complexity to an already intricate conflict.
United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, on 24 October stated “the events we are witnessing are unprecedented; they risk expanding to the wider region and may have a profound long-term impact on the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict”… and he continues “The steps we take to address this crisis must be implemented in a way that ultimately advances a negotiated peace that fulfils the legitimate national aspirations of Palestinians and Israelis – the long-held vision of two-States, in line with UN resolutions, international law and previous agreements”.
International intervention and mediation are a double-edged sword
The Israel-Palestine conflict has been significantly shaped by international intervention and mediation, yielding both positive and negative outcomes. Key players on the global stage, including the United Nations, the European Union, and the United States, have actively engaged in diplomatic negotiations to advocate for a peaceful resolution. However, in the presence of security clauses, coupled with the pervasive lens of terrorism, has, at times, fuelled rather than quelled the conflict.
International mediators have undertaken commendable efforts to bridge the gap between Israel and Palestine. On a positive note, they have provided a neutral platform for negotiations, injecting fresh perspectives into the discourse. Their involvement has aimed to level the playing field, ensuring that the voices of both sides are not only heard but also authentically represented.
The reality though is that since 2014, when then U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry abandoned peacemaking efforts, no substantial peace initiative has emerged. The United States has shifted its focus elsewhere, discontinuing endeavors for political resolution. Simultaneously, the international community has merely expressed nominal support for a two-state solution without a concrete implementation plan. It’s imperative to recognize that if the Israeli occupation persists, needless bloodshed will continue.
For nearly two decades, Palestinians in Gaza have endured a de facto prison, under Israeli siege and devoid of any political prospects. The recent devastating explosion is a direct outcome of this lack of a political horizon. Recent regional efforts have primarily centered around the Abraham Accords, fostering a false impression that peace is attainable without addressing the plight of Palestinians under occupation.
This clearly shows that the direction taken so far was short-term and the involvement of international actors can be a double-edged sword. When there is a deep-seated conflict, people are not cared for, military interventions and security clauses loom large, mediation can be overshadowed by the clatter of guns. Political agendas may drown out the pursuit of peace, exacerbating power struggles and intensifying the conflict before any hope of a ceasefire.
Regional and external actors might even contribute to further discord, forming alliances that polarize the conflict. Currently, it is imperative for international mediators to approach the situation with utmost sensitivity, respecting the aspirations of both nations and committing to impartiality. This is no arena for egos or control; it is a call to set aside personal agendas and earnestly work toward appeasing both parties.
Diplomatic initiatives and peace-building efforts
The Middle East Quartet, set up in 2022 consisting of the United Nations, the European Union, the United States, and Russia, has been actively involved in promoting peace and facilitating negotiations. Quartet-led initiatives aimed to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and facilitate negotiations for a two-state solution and has called for an end to violence and settlement expansion. It has also provided economic and political support to the Palestinian Authority, assisting in institution-building and capacity development.
Most recently, and as a result of the October 7th attack to Israel, UNSCO Secretary General, Secretary-General António Guterres, stated “I have condemned unequivocally the horrifying and unprecedented 7 October acts of terror by Hamas in Israel. Nothing can justify the deliberate killing, injuring, and kidnapping of civilians – or the launching of rockets against civilian targets.” Indeed, I spoke of the grievances of the Palestinian people and in doing so, I also clearly stated, and I quote: “But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas.”
Additionally, regional players like Egypt and Jordan have played intermediary roles in fostering dialogue between Israel and Palestine. Various peace plans, such as the Arab Peace Initiative, have been proposed to bring about a comprehensive resolution to the conflict.
Furthermore, the United Nations has consistently engaged in diplomatic efforts through its special envoys and peacekeeping missions, striving to create conducive conditions for dialogue and negotiation.
Civil society organizations, grassroots movements, and Track II diplomacy have also played a crucial role in promoting dialogue and understanding between Israelis and Palestinians. These initiatives foster people-to-people connections, build trust, and create spaces for open and honest discussions.
These diplomatic channels, along with numerous rounds of talks, reflect the collective international commitment to finding a diplomatic solution to the complex Israel-Palestine conflict. Each effort represents a nuanced attempt to navigate the challenging web of historical grievances and geopolitical complexities, aiming for a future where peace triumphs over discord.
Lessons learned from past diplomatic efforts
The history of diplomatic efforts in the Israel-Palestine conflict offers valuable lessons for future endeavours. One important lesson is the need for sustained engagement and commitment. Peace processes can be long and arduous, requiring perseverance and a long-term vision for peace.
Another lesson is the necessity of addressing the core issues at the heart of the conflict. Borders, settlements, security, and the status of Jerusalem are among the critical issues that need to be resolved for a lasting peace to be achieved. Ignoring or glossing over these issues only perpetuates the cycle of violence and mistrust.
Furthermore, inclusivity and representation are vital in diplomacy. All relevant stakeholders, including women, youth, and marginalized groups, should have a seat at the table and be involved in the decision-making process. Their perspectives and experiences can contribute to more comprehensive and sustainable peace agreements.
In addition, international collaboration and support is crucial. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has global implications, and a multilateral approach involving key international players can provide the necessary leverage and resources to facilitate a lasting resolution.
Moreover, flexibility and adaptability in diplomatic strategies are crucial. The situation on the ground can evolve, and diplomatic efforts must be responsive to changing circumstances. A rigid approach may not be effective in addressing the dynamic nature of the conflict.
Also, building trust between the parties involved is a gradual and delicate process and should not be underrated. Confidence-building measures, transparent communication, and a commitment to fulfilling agreed-upon obligations can contribute to fostering trust and can prove to support any peace process.
Lastly, learning from past failures is vital. Understanding why previous initiatives faltered can guide future diplomatic efforts in avoiding similar pitfalls and refining strategies for greater success.
The future of diplomacy in the Israel-Palestine conflict
The future of diplomacy in the Israel-Palestine conflict remains uncertain, but it is essential to maintain hope and remain optimistic that the solution can still be peace, not war. Diplomacy offers a non-violent and constructive path in this direction, and all parties have the same share of responsibility to uphold and strive for. In the words of President Biden, “we must keep pursuing a path so that Israel and the Palestinian people can both live safely, in security, in dignity, and in peace”.
As a first step, releasing the Israeli hostages in exchange of the Palestinian prisoners may be number one priority. Destroying Hamas does not necessarily mean the release of the Israeli hostages. Dismantling Hamas without securing the hostages also endangers their lives. The diplomatic off-ramp must be nothing less than a regional grand bargain—one that would address Israel’s necessary and legitimate strategic needs; strengthen the pragmatic Palestinian forces who are willing to reach a permanent agreement with Israel; avert a humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip; and prevent a wider regional war.
The challenge, admittedly, is enormous and may well be beyond what regional and international diplomacy can pull off. Competing interests among some of the key regional stakeholders (such as between longtime rivals Saudi Arabia and Qatar) and powerful spoilers—notably Iran, Hamas’s chief sponsor—are bound to get in the way.
Still, the international community must continue to support diplomatic efforts, providing the necessary resources, political and financial backing, and expertise to facilitate negotiations with the goal to demilitarise the Gaza strip – the second step. Such demilitarization should not mean a full-scale invasion that is currently under way.
As a third step, and working hand in hand with a Marshall-Plan support, a multinational Arab peacekeeping force should commence, hopefully receiving its mandate from a UN Security Council Resolution. Such a peacekeeping force should have the financial backing of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, alongside the European donor countries.
In the current context, achieving a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict may seem distant. However, a more comprehensive approach could involve reshaping the entire regional security framework. This broader deal might encompass American defence agreements with both Israel and Saudi Arabia, the normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, and collaborative U.S. and Saudi efforts to facilitate Israeli-Palestinian negotiations on a two-state solution. Such a comprehensive deal has the potential to address the immediate conflict but also to influence regional dynamics and potentially act as a deterrent to Iranian influence.
Overall, there is a need for renewed a commitment and engagement from both Israeli and Palestinian leaders to prioritize the pursuit of peace over short-term political, expansive, or territorial gains. This is exactly the point where the United States bears full responsibility in de-escalating the conflict.
So, the priority is not to exacerbate the situation by going to war, but rather protect all people equally. In fact, the U.S. should launch a diplomatic campaign led by senior U.S. officials aimed at achieving an immediate ceasefire in the conflict between Hamas and Israel, ensuring actions that support functioning democracies serving both parties alike and applying the rule of law.
Urgent action in the short-term should focus on ending the violence and putting human security first, with the top priority focused on safeguarding the basic freedoms of the most vulnerable civilians threatened in the conflict.
The proposed diplomatic surge should involve Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, all countries that have their own networks of relationships with Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Hamas to achieve a ceasefire.
Civil society organizations, grassroots movements, the media and citizens can play a crucial role. By promoting dialogue, fostering understanding, and advocating for peaceful coexistence, we can contribute to building a groundswell of support for diplomatic solutions, ultimately pushing for a two-state solution.
As the current security crisis hopefully resolves, the United States should invest in a more proactive, constructive approach aimed at achieving three key outcomes:
- Foster a more inclusive Palestinian government that genuinely addresses the needs of its people. Building on initial steps taken within the first 100 days, the Biden administration should continue rebuilding relationships by reestablishing direct diplomatic channels, providing essential humanitarian and economic aid. Alongside these efforts, the United States should explore avenues to reopen an independent U.S. consulate in Jerusalem, serving as a primary liaison for engaging with a diverse range of Palestinians. The current crisis has laid bare the fragility of decades-old Palestinian institutions, exploited by extremist groups amid political deadlocks. To counter this, the United States must actively involve itself with Palestinians and collaborate with key regional partners to engage a broader spectrum of political actors. A renewed U.S. diplomatic strategy should focus on supporting an emerging generation seeking a forward-looking political landscape.
- Enhance living conditions for Palestinians through a comprehensive stimulus package that tackles humanitarian needs and economic disparities. While the Biden administration has restarted some aid and pledged additional assistance, a more substantial effort is required as part of a fresh diplomatic initiative to establish conducive conditions for the success of a two-state solution. These actions are essential tools to reestablish the United States’ capacity to support Palestinians in attaining the security, freedoms, and economic opportunities they rightfully deserve. Moreover, they will empower Palestinians and their leaders to collaboratively chart the optimal path forward alongside their Israeli counterparts within the region between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean.
- Initiate a comprehensive regional stabilization endeavour through an expanded or enhanced Quartet and Arab Quartet collaboration. This inclusive multilateral group should work collectively to create opportunities on the Arab Israeli front and concurrently address tensions with Iran and ongoing conflicts. Leveraging the recent normalization agreements between Israel and various Arab nations, the Biden administration should bolster security and economic support for both Palestinians and Israelis. This regional diplomatic approach should prioritize tangible improvements in the lives of Palestinians, who significantly trail behind their neighbours in various aspects. Enhancing the quality of life and security for both Palestinians and Israelis is crucial for establishing a robust foundation for sustainable peace—rooted in legitimacy, aligned with the national aspirations of both parties, and safeguarding the rights of all individuals. Additionally, this regional diplomacy should address shared concerns regarding the security and sanctity of holy sites in Jerusalem.
Conclusion: The importance of diplomacy in achieving peace
In the crucible of the Israel-Palestine conflict, diplomacy emerges not as a panacea but as an indispensable tool, capable of carving away at the foundations of discord. As we traverse history, we witness the triumphs and tribulations of diplomatic efforts, recognizing their inherent power to transcend entrenched hostilities.
The path to peace is treacherous, riddled with mistrust, geopolitical complexities, and internal divisions. Yet, the resounding echoes of past partial successes, like the Oslo Accords and the Annapolis Conference, reverberate, offering glimpses of what diplomatic prowess can achieve.
As the international community grapples with the urgency of the current crisis, the imperative is clear: silence is not an option. Yet again, actions should never be short-term. Our call to action resonates beyond rhetoric, urging immediate steps to cease violence, prioritize human security, and engage key regional players. Diplomacy, with its potential to bridge divides and foster understanding, stands as a beacon of hope. It demands commitment, sustained engagement, and an unwavering focus on addressing core issues.
The future of diplomacy in the Israel-Palestine conflict remains uncertain, but it beckons us to envision a landscape where dialogue prevails over discord, hence placing a UN Diplomat and a team would be crucial at this time. With a clarion call for a more inclusive Palestinian government, improved living conditions, and a comprehensive regional stabilization endeavour, it is believed that we can curve future where the echoes of gunfire are replaced by the resonance of diplomatic dialogue.
Call to action
The call to action here is clear: immediate steps are needed to cease violence, prioritize human security, and engage key regional players. Diplomacy is emphasized as a crucial tool, demanding commitment, sustained engagement, and a focus on addressing core issues. The proposed diplomatic surge involves countries like Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, Turkey, and the UAE, along with civil society organizations, grassroots movements, the media, and citizens, aiming for a ceasefire and promoting dialogue for a two-state solution. Additionally, we call for a more inclusive Palestinian government, improved living conditions, and a comprehensive regional stabilization endeavor. Ultimately, we would like to envision a future where diplomatic dialogue prevails over strife in the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Featured photo: Anete Lusina: https://www.pexels.com/el-gr/photo/5723322/
