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. The example that some Muslim countries want to normalise relations with Israel is a testament to this fact.
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 by focusing more on security cooperation, technology exchange and trade with Israel. Bahrain followed the UAE in normalising relations with Israel in September 2020. This divided the public opinion even more as it was 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 a Muslim country, 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 complicates its stance. Saudi Arabia has historically taken a cautious approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Reports of backchannel communications between Saudi and Israeli officials raise questions about potential diplomatic normalisation. Pakistan, another prominent Muslim-majority nation, has historically been a strong advocate for Palestinian rights. However, it, like other nations, balances foreign policy with strategic interests.
This trend reflects the growing insensitivity of some Muslim-majority countries toward Palestine for their own self-interests. While the Palestinian cause continues to garner support, diplomatic normalisation with Israel should not take precedence.
Syeda Sania Rizvi
Rawalpindi
Published in The Express Tribune, October 30th, 2023.
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