EGIC members optimistic about rebuilding Palestine by 2100

 ROME - Middle East experts meeting at a top think tank on the region have kicked in a constellation of innovative ideas to resolve the Gaza crisis and provide a homeland for the Palestinian people. They expressed preference for a more "creative" approach to resolving the conflict in Palestine, but that they remain optimistic for an improved and recovered nation by the year 2100.

 This is the dialogue coming from the Euro-Golf Information Centre (EGIC) conference on prospects for peace in Palestine, where discussion focused mainly on how to we envision, and indeed hope to see, in Palestine during the next 75 years, and what actions can be taken to ensure that is achieved. 

 The conference, held on Thursday, aimed to offer the Gulf perspective on the conflict and the issue, with one of the Euro-Gulf Information Centre's (EGIC’s) founding members reiterating that although the war in Palestine seems distant for some of us, and a complicated issue to unpick, it ‘‘doesn’t mean we shouldn’t deal with it.”

 After allowing for all those willing to participate, one verdict was clear. The collective stance for “pro-peace.” An unprecedented conflict that has already claimed the lives of thousands and displaced thousands more, the goal in all of our minds should be an end to the fighting, and for arms to be laid aside.

 One thing was obvious however, as conversation moved onto Israel and the Gulf Coperation Council's (GCC) reaction and role in the conflict: their response to the Oct. 7 2023 attacks by Hamas has been “historic.” Points were raised on both side, centring on the question of is Israel a victim in this conflict, or not?

 With the floor open to all, one expert stated that they also believe they also risk putting themselves on “the wrong side of history,” with recent actions and disregard for international laws and UN demands, and a scary possibilty of radicalisation across the nation.

 A one state solution means only one thing: Israel is the only state. Even amongst the Israeli army there is uncertainly and a lack of consensus over the best plan of action across the country.

 Discussion then moved onto the latest proposal by former UK Prime Minister, Tony Blair: the Gaza International Transitional Authority (GITA) plan. A plan which has recently received the backing of Donal Trump, which would entail a council of seven to ten members with a focus on (Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration) DDR in the region: disarmament of the army and militia, demobilisation of any kind of military or terrorist group, and reintegration of Hamas back into Palestine and its society.

 The propsal however, is a plan leaning towards the side of Palestine, not Gaza. It moves away from the two-state solution that many nations global support with regards to a solution to the conflict, thus sparking further discussion among those present at the conference. Amonst some of those present there was a sense of optimism for a long term future between the two states, with EGIC speakers stating that “it is not about what will be but what could be.”

 Finally, talk progressed onto ideas for a resolution of the conflict, with many present believing a more creative solution than the rather “wooden” two state plan could be the best plan of action if we wish to have peace in Palestine by 2100.

 Political problems require politcal solutions, and it is important to note that Israel will hold elections within the nect 12 months. Its coalition government hangs by a thread, and there is plenty of protest amongst its people, whos main focus is the hostage situation and may lead to a politcal change without any other nations having to step in.

 Over the course of the hour and a half conference, a wide range of ideas and opinions were brought up and picked apart, which EGIC members embraced and encouraged. As rightly stated, everyone comes to the discussion over Palestine with their own view, both globally and on a national scale, so why not here on a much smaller scale too?

 With so many conflicting priorities amongst those involved in the conflict, the consensus amongst those present at the conference was that the focus should be on the people of the area, and how we can help them to begin to rebuild a life on top of the rubble that is left of their home and nations, as their Islamic identity is being lost in the chaotic tornado of war.

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