Reflecting on Peace Efforts in Gaza and the Shift Away from Armed Resistance
As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullah. When former US President Donald Trump presented his 20-point plan aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza and paving the way for a peaceful Middle East, he did so with input from leaders across the Arab and Islamic worlds. The plan acknowledges the suffering experienced by the Palestinian people due to both the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, and the ongoing Israeli military response. It also clearly rejects the idea that armed struggle is the way to achieve Palestinian liberation. Each country involved had its own reasons for supporting this initiative. For example, Egypt was concerned about the displacement of Gaza’s population into its borders, fearing the possible influx of Muslim Brotherhood elements. The Israeli government's policies have aimed not only to control Palestinian land but also to push certain groups into neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan. Trump's plan instead promotes voluntary migration for Palestinians. A key meeting in New York last month between the US President and Arab and Islamic leaders marked a shift. These leaders agreed to withdraw support for Hamas and unite behind the goal of international recognition for a Palestinian state, with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas pledging that such a state would be demilitarized. There is a shared belief among those shaping the plan that the best way to protect Palestinian lives amid Israel’s assault is for Hamas to surrender. Meanwhile, Iran appears to be distancing itself from its proxies in Gaza, despite its claims otherwise. The coalition once known as the Axis of Resistance now seems fractured and ineffective. It’s true that past peace efforts with Israel have faced many challenges, and Israel has often rejected peace offers, while continuing to expand settlements and displace Palestinians. The reality today is that neighboring countries lack the military power to confront Israel directly. Syria, which once hosted armed Palestinian factions, now seeks security arrangements with Israel and may soon join Egypt and Jordan in peace agreements. Lebanon, though currently influenced by Iran, might eventually move toward peace under changing circumstances. This all suggests that armed resistance is no longer a practical option for Palestinians. While some may feel that this marks the end of the Palestinian cause, it’s important to remember the immense hardships faced by the Palestinian people and the divisions within their leadership over the years. Insha’Allah, peaceful means and sincere cooperation among Muslim nations will bring about justice and security for the Palestinian people and the wider region.