KARACHI:
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a deeply complex issue with political, historical and humanitarian dimensions. While many Muslim-majority countries express solidarity with the Palestinian cause, concerns are rising about some nations prioritising self-interest over Palestinian welfare. In August 2020, the UAE’s normalisation with Israel, known as the Abraham Accords, marked a significant departure from the traditional Arab stance on Israel. While framed as a means to halt West Bank annexation, it raised concerns that it undermined the Palestinian cause, focusing on security cooperation, technology exchange and trade with Israel.
This was followed by Bahrain normalising relations with Israel in September 2020. This move divided opinions, seen by some as a step toward regional peace and by others as a betrayal of the Palestinian people. Bahrain’s decision appeared influenced by regional politics and alliances. In October 2020, Sudan, predominantly Muslim, also normalised relations with Israel. Economic motivations including removal from the US list of state sponsors of terrorism and access to international financial aid played a role. It marked a significant shift from Sudan’s previous solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Iran, consistently anti-Israel, actively supports Palestinian groups. However, its regional rivalry with Saudi Arabia and broader geopolitical struggles complicate its stance. Saudi Arabia has historically taken a cautious approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Pakistan, another prominent Muslim-majority nation, has historically been a strong advocate for Palestinian rights. However, Pakistan, like other nations, balances foreign policy with strategic interests. Pakistan’s role emphasises the intricate dynamics at play in the region. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict underscores the challenges of balancing national interests with support for the Palestinian cause. While the Palestinian cause continues to garner support, diplomatic normalisation with Israel often takes precedence, raising questions about the commitment to the rights and well-being of the Palestinian people.
Syeda Sania Rizvi
Rawalpindi
Published in The Express Tribune, October 24th, 2023.
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