Why is Israeli-Palestinian peace impossible to achieve?

Written by – Elijah J. Magnier:

Amid a highly volatile and escalating military situation in the Middle East, with the war spreading to various theatres beyond Gaza, the dynamics present a complex geopolitical challenge. The US, despite its global standing, seems unable to stop Israel’s actions in Gaza, leading to a cessation of hostilities on all fronts. This situation is exacerbated by what is perceived as unwavering US support for Israel, even in the face of actions that critics argue violate international law and the Geneva Convention. This stance has sparked significant debate about the erosion of US moral authority and credibility on the world stage.

In this tense atmosphere, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has set out a post-war plan for Gaza. But the ongoing conflict, marked by widespread destruction and a tragic civilian toll (27,000 killed and 70,000 wounded), raises questions about the timing and practicality of such proposals. With the Israeli military yet to achieve decisive results after months of conflict and the scale of the devastation unfolding, Netanyahu’s vision for a post-war scenario appears premature. It is met with scepticism about its viability. The unfolding situation underscores the complexity of declaring intentions for a post-conflict order while the conflict itself, with its profound humanitarian and strategic implications, is far from resolved.

The strategy reflects Netanyahu’s multifaceted approach to resolving regional conflicts, combining military oversight, diplomacy and political restructuring. First, it establishes an Israeli military government in Gaza to manage civil affairs. Next, it formed an Arab coalition, including nations such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, to support a new Palestinian Authority aimed at regional integration and reduced tensions.

The plan envisages the transfer of governance from Israel to new officials unaffiliated with the main Palestinian factions while maintaining Israeli security operations, which per se is a source of conflict because it allows Israel to arrest and kill as it considers fit. Successive phases could include broader Palestinian governance reforms and, possibly, Israeli recognition of a Palestinian state in two to four years. However, the plan’s success depends on numerous geopolitical factors, including Palestinian acceptance (highly unlikely), making its potential implementation complex and impossible. Netanyahu is known to be untrustworthy in any offer to the Palestinians that can secure their future state.