THE timing of the Palestine-Israel war indicates that an accord for acceptance of Israel across the Muslim world is now history. The Al-Aqsa Typhoon operation of Hamas, the military wing of the country’s political party, has made a compelling case for Palestine’s independence as per the UN Resolution. There is widespread global support for Palestine, while a few countries in the West and India are violating international law by supporting Israel and its war crimes. The UN should advocate for an independent Palestine as a crucial step towards permanent peace in the region.
In statements by the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, they have called for a two-state solution as a permanent solution. Gulf States, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, have termed the Hamas attack as a result of Israel’s policies. Meanwhile, Iran, Afghanistan, Sudan and Yemen are among those that have congratulated Hamas and pledged their support. It’s worth noting that Hamas also attacked Israel in the 1990s against the Oslo peace process between Israel and Fatah, the Palestinian Authority’s ruling party.
The Israeli Prime Minister is very unpopular in the country due to corruption charges and an attack on the judiciary under judicial reforms. He may resort to using the war to strike a deal with the West to stay in power against the democratic will of the Israeli people. It wouldn’t be surprising if he resorts to extreme war crimes to regain support from the extreme right wing of the party at home while continuing to act as the West’s security post in the Middle East.
Similarly, Modi, serving as the West’s security outpost in the region, has aligned with his western counterparts in supporting Israel. After the latest global condemnation of Israel and its allies, there is little room for Muslim leaders to engage with India until the Palestine and Kashmir issues are settled in accordance with international resolutions. India’s Supreme Court’s refusal of the Bihar Dalit Caste Survey has exposed the Indian Government’s Israel-like policies against its citizens. Following this court judgment, Modi’s global allies are seen as partners in crimes with the Indian government.
It is the duty of UNSC members to stand with the rule of law and protect the helpless citizens of Palestine, who urgently need security against Israel and its western allies, as they seek a separate country with Al-Quds as its capital. They were promised a separate state in exchange for accepting Jews deported by the West. All eyes are now on China and Russia after the West has promised Israel full diplomatic and military support. Former Russian President Medvedev said that Hamas’ widespread attacks on Israel on Saturday were an expected development. He denounced US foreign policy in the Middle East and Ukraine, noting that the conflict between Israel and Palestine has persisted for decades, and America, as a key player, has failed to resolve it (Newsweek, October 7, 2023).
In a parallel development, there are warnings of divisions in western Ukraine. The gathering of 47-nation leaders in the EPC summit in Spain attempted to reassure Ukraine of western support which independent analysts see as fracturing. The elections in Poland are critical for the pro-Ukraine West, especially after the Pro-Russia Party won parliamentary elections in Slovakia. Republicans opposed aid for Ukraine, and Trump is on record stating that he could stop the war in 24 hours, lower oil prices to under $40 and expand the US share in the EU energy market.
The cost of living crisis is forcing EU member states to reconsider their priorities, making it difficult to support Ukraine. Slovakian statistics show that Robert Fico’s SMER party won 22.9% of the vote, while Progressive Slovakia, a liberal and pro-Ukraine party, won 18%. After receiving a formal offer to form a government, Fico expressed his commitment to restarting Russia-Ukraine peace talks, emphasizing that killing would not help anyone (CNN, October 2, 2023). Europe’s voters are sending an anti-war message; it’s time for an independent Palestine, not another war in the Middle East.
International observers are concerned that the Palestine-Israel war could escalate into a wider conflict. The Council on Foreign Relations warns that the surprise Palestinian attack raises fears of a broader Middle East war. Iran supports Hezbollah and other Palestinian militant groups, presenting a constant danger of a two-front conflict that could devastate parts of Israel and much of Lebanon, where Hezbollah is based. There is a risk of further escalation.
President Xi has the opportunity to engage with President Biden to halt the Palestine-Israel war and prevent further harm to innocent Palestinians. As a member of the UNSC, China can play a vital role in achieving independence for Palestine within the framework of international law. A bipartisan US delegation, led by Schumer, is visiting China, and some analysts see the visit as an effort to align with the Biden Administration’s recent “tactical” adjustments to enhance engagement with China. Beijing should call for the upholding of international law regarding Palestinian statehood for the sake of global peace, prosperity and growth.”
—The writer is senior political analyst based in Islamabad.
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