With the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas escalating into a full-blown war, the prospect of peace seems dim. The continuous loss of lives and the deepening divide between Israelis and Palestinians give an impression that a resolution is unattainable. However, amidst these turbulent times, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak believes that now is the moment to revive the goal of a renewed peace process.
The Urgency for a Two-State Solution:
Barak emphasizes that a two-state solution should be pursued not merely due to concerns for justice towards Palestinians, but because it is crucial for Israel’s own security, future, and identity. The former Prime Minister underlines the imperative for Israel to disengage from the Palestinians and protect its reputation within the international community. In Barak’s view, failing to make concessions after the current conflict could lead to a loss of legitimacy, hampering efforts for regional cooperation and hindering the reconstruction of Gaza.
Examining Past Attempts:
Barak recalls his experience in 2000, when he came close to securing a peace deal with the Palestinians. Through negotiations brokered by President Bill Clinton, Barak proposed the establishment of a Palestinian state, encompassing 97 percent of the West Bank, all of Gaza, and East Jerusalem as its capital. However, Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat rejected the proposal, leading to the outbreak of the Second Intifada. This event not only derailed the peace process but also dealt a severe blow to Israel’s peace movement.
Preparing for the Future:
Despite the challenges faced in the past, Barak emphasizes the critical need for Israel to embrace a two-state solution in order to avoid a one-state reality that could jeopardize its democratic character and Jewish identity. He acknowledges the difficulty of convincing a right-wing coalition and an Israeli population increasingly leaning towards a one-state solution, but believes that groundwork for the future should be laid, demonstrating Israel’s commitment to a two-state vision through ongoing discussions and collaboration with regional partners.
The Road Ahead:
Looking beyond the current conflict, Barak raises important questions about the political outcome of the war and the future of the Gaza Strip. He shares his past proposal of an Arab-led international peacekeeping force assuming control of Gaza temporarily until the Palestinian Authority can regain control. However, he acknowledges the challenges in finding a suitable entity to take over and the potential for the situation to spiral into a broader conflict involving groups like Hezbollah.
Ehud Barak’s perspective on the necessity of a two-state solution offers a glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing conflict. He stresses that Israel must not lose sight of the objective, especially during these challenging times. Promoting a two-state solution is vital not only for the well-being of Palestinians but also for Israel’s security, long-term interests, and its identity as a Jewish democracy. While the path to peace will be arduous, it is crucial to maintain the vision of a two-state solution and work towards its realization when the time is right.
Market Capital Research 