Israel's moment of choice

Muslim nations have now united behind an initiative aimed at ending the devastation in Gaza triggered by the Hamas's attack exactly two years ago. Following Hamas's conditional acceptance of US President Donald Trump's ceasefire plan, the foreign ministers of Jordan, the UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Egypt have welcomed the move as a realistic opening toward peace. Their joint statement signals an important convergence on the urgent need to halt the bloodshed and address Gaza's worsening humanitarian crisis.

By agreeing to release hostages, enter negotiations on a lasting settlement and hand over Gaza's administration to an interim technocratic authority, Hamas has shown readiness to move beyond confrontation. Yet, Israel's response remains as defiant as ever. Airstrikes continue to pound the enclave even as diplomatic channels begin to reopen, raising doubts about Tel Aviv's sincerity in pursuing peace. Washington's role at this stage is crucial. As Israel's closest ally and the main architect of the current proposal, the US bears the responsibility of ensuring that its calls for restraint translate into action. Silence in the face of continued aggression would only embolden Israel's hardline approach and render peace efforts meaningless. By contrast, the Muslim bloc's unity has sent a rare and powerful message that a peaceful, negotiated resolution is still possible if political will exists on all sides. The next step, however, rests squarely with Israel. Continued bombardment will not secure its safety, nor erase Palestinian resistance. Only through genuine dialogue and restraint can this moment of opportunity be turned into lasting peace.

History is watching. The world will not forget who stood in the way when the chance for peace finally emerged from the rubble. The coming days will determine whether this moment becomes a turning point towards peace or yet another chapter in the long, tragic cycle of betrayal and bloodshed.