Israel's Intransigence Condemns Middle East to War, Denies Chance for Peace

Perceptions long held throughout the West about the Middle East have never been favourable – "mad Arabs," "savages," "terrorists," are the disparaging commentaries that have shaped Western attitudes and policy towards the region, perpetuating stereotypes, and deepening mistrust.

The derogatory pejoratives are endless - anything not white amidst the colonising empires has attracted racist hatred.

The slaughter of 274 innocent people in Nusreiat and how the media covered the story and the way it covered it attests to that, the ongoing genocide since October 7, and let’s not forget the oppression of the Palestinians for the past 85 years reinforces the idea that brown-skinned people are of no significance.

So, for a region full of “mad Arabs” and “savage terrorists,” why is it that it’s the Arabs who are looking to foster peace and economic prosperity for their people, while the “only true democracy” in the region, Israel, thrives on war, murder, and is anti-peace?

Peace in the Middle East has always been tortuous - marred by historical grievances, territorial disputes, and deeply ingrained animosities. But, amidst it all, it’s Israel that stands out for its reluctance to embrace peace.

Despite numerous chances, Israel has always found it difficult to say "yes" and negotiate peace - raising questions about its desire for lasting stability in the region and opting for intransigence instead. The Oslo Accords of the 1990s presented a historic chance for peace, but the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin derailed what was a beginning opportunity. The Camp David Summit in 2000 and the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002 were met with Israeli refusal to make significant compromises.

Since then, Israel's political landscape has shifted dramatically to the right, and the rise of Benjamin Netanyahu as Prime Minister entrenched a policy of expansionism and military dominance.

Netanyahu’s aggressive settlement expansion in the West Bank and refusal to engage seriously with Palestinian leaders hasn’t only exacerbated tensions, it’s made a two-state solution impossible.

The blockade of Gaza, constant military incursions, and construction of the wall are all framed as necessary security measures, but the truth is, they are designed to oppress the Palestinians and create a widespread humanitarian crisis.

Social media has awoken the world to the brutality and criminality of Israel, and with that awakening has come international condemnation.

The US has always played a pivotal role in shaping the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. A staunch ally, the relationship has been both boon and bane for the prospects of peace - regardless, the US has been complicit in the genocide of the Palestinians.

The relentless blockade of Gaza, the devastating bombings, and the punitive measures imposed on the Palestinian people have all occurred with the tacit, if not overt, support of the US.

Nusreiat last weekend not only drew silence from Washington, but it also highlighted a troubling pattern of indifference to Palestinian suffering.

AIPAC and other pro-Israel lobbying groups wield considerable influence over US foreign policy. Their lobbying has ensured continued American support for Israel, even in the face of widespread international condemnation.

Contrary to the narrative of perpetual war, many Arab nations have expressed their desire for peace and regional stability. The Arab Peace Initiative, first proposed in 2002 by Saudi Arabia and endorsed by the Arab League, offered Israel full normalization of relations in exchange for a withdrawal to the 1967 borders and a just solution to the Palestinian refugee issue. The initiative remains one of the most comprehensive and far-reaching proposals for peace in the region, yet Israel ignored and dismissed it.

Recent diplomatic developments indicate a significant shift in regional dynamics. The Abraham Accords, which saw several Arab nations, including the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, normalise relations with Israel, demonstrate a willingness among Arab states to move beyond historical grievances and work toward a peaceful and prosperous future.

The economic potential of a peaceful Middle East remains untold. Arab nations have repeatedly emphasised their desire to focus on economic development and improving the quality of lives for Arabs, but Israel only cares for war.

Israel's occupation and aggressive policies undermine the possibilities with the economic benefits remaining unrealised if it persists with its hardline stance, and the Middle East denied of any chance of peace, stability, and economic prosperity.

Its refusal to engage in peace negotiations has led to international isolation with many countries and international organisations condemning Israeli policy, especially around settlements and the treatment of Palestinians.

The Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, which seeks to pressure Israel through economic and cultural boycotts, has gained traction globally, underscoring growing outrage and disgust with Israel's genocidal mania and lust for blood.

But despite growing international condemnation, Israel continues to enjoy robust support from key allies like the US. America’s unwavering backing enables Israel’s intransigence and undermines efforts to hold Israel accountable for its war crimes.

Peace in the Middle East will never happen if Israel is allowed to behave as murderous thugs. For peace to happen, it requires Israel to genuinely commit to peace and a fundamental shift in its policies and mindset – which involves halting settlement expansion, ending the blockade of Gaza, engaging in genuine dialogue with Palestinian leaders, and addressing their legitimate grievances.

The US holds significant leverage in this process. It must re-evaluate its unconditional support for Israel. If the US does that, it won’t only alleviate the slaughter and suffering of Palestinians but pave the way for a more stable and peaceful Middle East.

It’s not the Arabs who are “mad savages and terrorists,” but more so the US and Israel whose lust war remains a dominant force in their foreign policies and hegemony.