The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas that see the increasing loss of lives and destruction of properties, notably historical sites, call for level heads and workable solutions.
In 1974, a United Nations (UN) resolution on the “Peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine” called for “two States,” Israel and Palestine … side by side within secure and recognised borders” together with “a just resolution of the refugee question. Since then, the idea of a two-state solution has been the main proposal for discussions for a peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The concept of two separate states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security, has long been seen as the most viable path to a lasting resolution. However, recent developments have cast doubt on the feasibility of this solution. This article explores some of the factors that may have put an end to any prospects for such a solution.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has deep historical, cultural, and emotional roots, with both sides claiming the same land as their rightful homeland. The issue is compounded, too, by a deep- seated spiritual component. Over the years, negotiations and peace processes – mediated by various international agencies as well as sovereign governments – have aimed to find a compromise that is acceptable to both sides. The two-state solution gained traction as a potential resolution of the problem.
On October 7, 2023, Palestinian militants poured into Israel from Gaza, and reportedly began to take Israeli hostages, among other hostilities. Israel’s initial retaliation was welcomed. However, within recent months this retaliation is hurting aid agencies and killing allies, to the point where states and persons are beginning to feel the war is not purposeful but has ulterior motives. The call for a two-state solution is mounting.
According to data at least 180 people are being killed every day. This is senseless.
Last Friday the United Nations Human Rights Council adopted a resolution calling for Israel to be held accountable for possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip, although Israel dismissed it as a “distorted text.” Twenty-eight countries voted in favour, 13 abstained and six opposed the resolution, including the United States and Germany.
