Introduction
I represent Palestine, a state located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. We are involved in a conflict with Israel that began in 1948 when Israel was created on territory that was previously part of Palestine. The conflict involves various disputes over territory, religion, and culture.
Peculiarities of the Conflict
To achieve peace in the region, several contentious issues need to be resolved. The first issue is defining the borders between Israel and Palestine. There are two possible options: the “green line” can be recognized as the official border, or new borders based on the parties’ territorial claims can be established.
The second issue is who should control Jerusalem. Jerusalem has immense religious and cultural significance for both sides, and its status is one of the key contentious issues.
The third issue is the Palestinian refugees’ demand for the right of return. This is a question of what to do with over 5 million Palestinian refugees who were forced to leave their homes during the 1948 war. Without resolving this issue, peace in the region will be impossible.
To ensure Israel’s security in the region, mechanisms need to be developed to guarantee the observance of national security rights for all parties. This may include various security measures, such as demilitarization of territories and peacekeeping missions.
Possible Solutions
A compromise position and general agreement are necessary to resolve these disputed issues. However, as noted, these disputes are the most complex and significant obstacles to peace in the region. As independent representatives, we cannot give a definitive answer to the question of whether a solution should be based on two or one state. Both sides must decide, taking into account the interests and rights of each people.
Nevertheless, a solution based on two states is considered more acceptable and realistic from the point of view of international law and conflict resolution. Both sides should take compromise measures and seek agreements on each disputed issue.
The three most significant obstacles to peace in the region are:
- The question of the borders between Israel and Palestine is one of the most contentious, as it touches on both sides’ territorial claims and interests.
- The question of the status of Jerusalem. Both sides claim Jerusalem as their capital, making this issue even more complex and explosive.
- The question of the right of return for Palestinian refugees. Over 5 million Palestinians were forced to leave their homes in 1948, and this issue remains one of the most pressing for Palestinians and is a key element in any peace agreement.
Thus, to achieve peace in the region, the following policy is recommended:
- The United Nations should continue to act as a mediator and coordinator of efforts to resolve the conflict and encourage both sides to engage in dialogue and compromise.
- In addition, it is necessary to increase support for UN peacekeeping missions in the conflict area and continue cooperation with the League of Arab States and the United States. All of these actions should aim to maintain dialogue between the parties and seek compromise.
- To improve security and stability in the region, it is also necessary to strengthen the borders between Israel and Palestine and establish a demilitarization system. This will help prevent armed conflicts and reduce tension in the region.
Conclusion
A two-state solution can only be realistic if certain conditions are met. The first step should be for both sides to take the position that establishing peace in the region is a priority. In addition, contentious issues such as borders, control over Jerusalem, and the right of return for refugees should be resolved fairly to ensure long-term stability and security for both peoples.
However, given the historical problems and deep disagreements between the parties, the proposed solution is unrealistic without serious efforts from the international community and all interested parties. Furthermore, I believe that the policy recommendations proposed by the UN to the Israeli government, Palestinians, the United States, and the League of Arab States should be developed in close collaboration with both sides and consider their needs and interests. Only then can real and sustainable peace be achieved in the region.