In a recent conversation at NHS Media, Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhary, the former Foreign Secretary of Pakistan, provided a comprehensive analysis of the current situation in Palestine. He touched upon various dimensions of the issue, emphasizing its historical, ideological, and geopolitical aspects.
Key Points:
- The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is deeply rooted in historical events, including the Balfour Declaration and the post-World War I shift of power in the region, leading to complex territorial disputes.
- The region’s religious importance, particularly as the first Qibla for Muslims, adds an ideological dimension to the conflict.
- The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) was established in response to events at Al-Aqsa Mosque in 1969, highlighting the responsibility of the Muslim world to address the issue.
- Outside powers, notably the United Kingdom and the influence of the Jewish lobby in the United States, have played significant roles in the conflict, resulting in enduring strength for Israel and limited international support for the Palestinian cause.
- The connection between the Palestinian and Kashmir issues lies in the shared desire for self-determination, although reciprocation of support has been inconsistent, with Palestinians not consistently advocating for the rights of the Kashmiri people in international forums.
- The debate surrounding diplomatic ties with Israel remains contentious, with some advocating for such relations while others emphasize Pakistan’s historical commitment to a two-state solution and unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. Recent normalization agreements in the Arab world have reignited discussions on Pakistan’s stance.
Ambassador Chaudhary began by discussing the territorial dimension of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He highlighted the historical coexistence of Muslims, Jews, and Christians in the region during the time of the Ottoman Empire. However, following World War I, the area came under British control as part of the League of Nations mandate. The 1917 Balfour Declaration played a pivotal role in promoting Jewish immigration to the region, which ultimately led to the establishment of Israel. Ambassador Chaudhary noted that the conflict in the region dates back to these historical events, and the presence of outsiders has limited the rights of the indigenous Muslim and Christian populations. Several wars, such as those in 1948, 1956, 1967, and 1973, have taken place, with Israel receiving support from the United States. The Ambassador emphasized the complexity of the territorial dispute.
The second dimension which Ambassador Chaudhary addressed is the ideological one. He pointed out that Jerusalem (Al-Quds) holds great religious significance for Muslims as their first Qibla (direction of prayer). This religious dimension has made the Israeli-Palestinian conflict resonate deeply with Muslims worldwide. He also mentioned the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which was established in 1969 following a fire in Al-Aqsa Mosque, underlining the responsibility of Muslims to resolve this issue.
Ambassador Chaudhary discussed the third dimension, the geopolitical aspect, by highlighting the historical and ongoing role of outside powers in the region. He noted that the United Kingdom’s historical actions and the influence of the strong Jewish lobby in the United States have contributed to Israel’s enduring strength. In contrast, there has been limited international support for the Palestinian cause, which has exacerbated the situation.
Regarding the connection between the Palestinian and Kashmir issues, Chaudhary drew parallels between the struggles for self-determination in both regions. He lamented the lack of reciprocal support, with Palestinians not consistently advocating for the Kashmiri people’s rights, particularly in international forums. He attributed this to the changing dynamics of Arab nations seeking to normalize relations with India and not wanting to jeopardize their ties over the Kashmir issue.
Ambassador Chaudhary also addressed the issue of Pakistan’s stance on Israel. He acknowledged the ongoing debate within Pakistan about whether to establish diplomatic ties with Israel, noting the concerns about the influence of Israel’s lobby in the United States and the perceived similarities between Israeli actions in Gaza and India’s actions in Jammu and Kashmir. On the other hand, there is a commitment to stand by the Palestinian cause and the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque. Despite the debate, Ambassador Chaudhary mentioned Pakistan’s historical commitment to a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, indicating that Pakistan would recognize both states when such a solution is realized.
Finally, Ambassador Chaudhary commented on the silence of international forums such as the OIC, Arab League, and GCC regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He explained that consensus-building takes time, and member states often prioritize their national interests. Arab countries are cautious about openly taking sides to prevent further regional instability. He also pointed out that the Arab world might be avoiding direct involvement to prevent war, despite protests and international concerns. He called for countries to work toward a ceasefire to avoid further loss of life in the region.