Incentives for peace needed in Gaza war
- Three more European countries have recognised a Palestinian state in a symbolic move to be applauded if it helps end the bloodshed
This week’s recognition of a Palestinian state by Spain, Norway and Ireland was seen as a symbolic move with relatively limited impact when compared to a ceasefire in the war in Gaza. Still, the diplomatic step should be welcomed as an additional incentive for Israel to soften its response to last year’s deadly attack by Hamas on Israeli civilians.
Israel has already lashed out at the European nations over the move, insisting that it must keep fighting. Its national security adviser said “another seven months” was needed to destroy the military and governing capabilities of Hamas.
Already in its eighth month, the conflict has taken a horrific toll on Gaza. In May, Israel admitted a “tragic mistake” after an air strike set fire to a refugee tent camp in Rafah, killing dozens, including many children.
More than 36,000 Palestinians have died since the war began, Gaza health authorities say. Even Israel’s closest allies have expressed outrage at civilian deaths.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said formal recognition had a “single goal” to “help Israelis and Palestinians achieve peace”. Now 145 of the UN’s 193 member states recognise Palestinian statehood.
Many are in the Middle East, Africa and Asia – China among them. President Xi Jinping told his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in Beijing that “an immediate ceasefire” was “imperative”, reiterating China’s support for a “two-state solution” and full UN membership of a Palestinian state.
No major Western powers have extended recognition. The United States and Britain are among those backing the idea of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, but believe it should come as part of a negotiated settlement.
Israel’s government says the conflict can only be resolved through direct negotiations.
Palestinians have long sought an independent state in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in 1967. The idea of a land corridor linking Gaza and the West Bank through Israel has been discussed, but no serious peace talks have been held in more than 15 years.
The path to peace will remain obscured by the fog of war. Wider recognition of a Palestinian state may seem premature, yet worth it if it can help end the bloodshed.
