60 years later - the Israel Palestinian conflict

By Bob Rae

First published in Global Currents, Winter 2009. Download a .pdf version of the newsletter here.

This year marks Canada`s 60^th year of engagement in the effort to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. While the recent violence in Gaza has meant little for the advancement of peace, over the past 60 years there has been undeniable progress. Throughout these 60 years, we have seen a calming of tensions, a massive reduction in casualties, significant progress on key final status issues as well as broad acceptance of a two-state solution. During this same time however, we have witnessed a series of failed peace plans, repeated outbreaks of violence, three regional wars, and too much suffering and death. Our challenge today is not to point fingers, but rather to find a comprehensive solution.

Apart from the foremost final status issues which remain unresolved, namely; the status of Jerusalem, the right of return and clear national borders, there are a number of overarching themes and challenges that will continue to test the mission of peace in the Middle East. One of these challenges is the developmental divide between Israel and the Palestinian Territories. As the West Bank struggles to improve economic conditions under tight restrictions, the Gaza Strip remains one of the poorest, overpopulated and economically weak regions in the world. Gaza continues to be dependent on external aid and assistance, hampered by Israeli border restrictions, and ruled by a Hamas dictatorship that is repressive and ideologically extreme. These features will obviously hinder the pursuit of peace. Until a viable and competitive Palestinian state emerges; one that can engage honestly and confidently with the international community, obstacles to peace will remain considerable and daunting.

At the same time, it is essential that the international community recognize these internal challenges and refrain from further punishing the people of Gaza for their institutional shortcomings. We should be supporting the formation of a Palestinian state and showing more leadership in expressing what it will take to get there. All of our friends, including the United States, have shown a willingness to do so. Canada has not.

Another major challenge facing the peace effort in the Middle East is the internal division within both the Palestinian and Israeli political communities. As we all know, Gaza and the West Bank continue to be governed by rival political groups. While some argue that Hamas` ability to survive an Israeli military campaign has served to bolster their support, the recent violence has been seen by some to have shaken Hamas` authority.

Meanwhile, Fatah continues to govern in the West Bank, and faces its own challenges. Additionally, the political instability which has emerged as a result of the recent Israeli election indicates that a more hard-line approach to peace negotiations could take centre stage. Diplomatic and humanitarian efforts are made exponentially more complicated as a result of such fragmented leadership. But we must persevere.

President Obama`s fresh perspective, renewed emphasis on diplomacy and willingness to listen provides us with hope that a fresh face will help both parties come closer to peace.

While these challenges persist, Canada must remain committed to finding a lasting two-state solution while promoting and encouraging the viability of a Palestinian state. While it may seem unattainable at times, history shows us that breakthroughs can happen, and deep cultural divides can be bridged. Until that time comes when both Israelis and Palestinians recognize that the overwhelming advantages of peace outweigh the heavy costs of conflict, Canada and the rest of the world must remain committed.