FIDA IQBAL
Recent elections in Israel and the midterm elections in the United States have produced surprising results, carrying political implications that extend far beyond the boundaries of these two countries. Though the circumstances and political situations in Israel and America are entirely different, the underlying message emerging from these electoral outcomes appears to be somewhat similar: people are increasingly becoming conscious of the consequences of prolonged confrontation and policies that undermine peaceful coexistence.
In Israel, where the Netanyahu government has, in the recent past, almost decimated Palestinian habitations in Gaza, claiming that such action was necessary to safeguard Israel’s interests and the security of its people, the electoral outcome is particularly significant. The emergence of Arab political groups as a decisive force and potential kingmakers has placed Netanyahu and his political establishment in a difficult position. Their support could prove important in the formation of the next government, although the possibility of a coalition or political understanding with them remains uncertain.
Many may interpret these election results as a rejection of Netanyahu’s policies and political leadership. However, there is another, more positive way of looking at this development. It could be interpreted as an indication of growing public support for a peaceful resolution of the Palestinian issue, one that addresses the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians while guaranteeing the security and existence of Israel. The growing political relevance of Arab groups may also provide an opportunity for a different approach to the long-standing conflict.
Both Palestinians and Israelis need to rise above petty political considerations, historical grievances and egoistic positions to make way for peace in the region and in their own lives. At this stage, it is becoming increasingly immaterial to argue endlessly about who holds what territory and why. The passage of so many decades since the creation of Israel should have convinced both sides that neither can wish away the existence of the other. Negotiations and mutual acceptance are now the first and foremost conditions for their peaceful survival.
After just and genuine negotiations, both sides will have to accept certain realities. Israel is a reality, and Palestinians are an inseparable part of this reality, with a legitimate right to have their own sovereign and independent state. The sooner these two communities recognise and accept this fundamental fact, the better it will be for the region and the world at large. Peace cannot be built upon the permanent humiliation or denial of the rights of one community, nor can the security of one nation be ensured by keeping another population in perpetual conflict and uncertainty.
The American election results are equally surprising. The results have changed the political balance in Congress and may make the passage of legislation and implementation of the Trump administration’s agenda more challenging. Many observers see the outcome as reflecting public concerns about the administration’s handling of the Iran war and its wider implications. It is true that the conflict has highlighted the difficulty of assessing Iran’s military capabilities. However, it was not merely Iran’s military strength that led America to consider negotiations in the middle of the war. It was also Iran’s determination and resolve to stand its ground against American, Israeli and allied forces.
The logistical and strategic support reportedly extended by China and Russia, America’s two major international rivals, also appears to have made a difference during the conflict. Both countries are believed to have extended some form of support to Iran, although the exact nature and extent of their involvement remain uncertain. Their reported involvement added another international dimension to the conflict and made the situation more complicated for America and its allies.
The course of the conflict also highlighted the difficulty of assessing Iran’s multilayered command and control structure, its defence system and political leadership. The reported involvement of international rivals further added to the complexity of the situation.
Furthermore, America’s own allies, with the exception of Israel, showed considerably less enthusiasm for becoming directly involved in the war. Instead, several of them consistently projected the need for peace and negotiations. Consequently, the Iran war increasingly became the responsibility of America and Israel, with limited logistical support from their Middle Eastern allies. Some of these regional allies themselves faced the consequences of Iranian attacks and, at times, appeared to be urging America to bring the conflict to an early conclusion.
The negotiations between Iran and America, brokered primarily by Pakistan, were one such effort. Qatar also played an important role behind the scenes by maintaining communication channels with both sides, facilitating contacts and helping bridge differences between Washington and Tehran. While Pakistan remained the principal public mediator, Qatar’s diplomatic involvement, along with its close relations with both America and Iran, contributed to creating an atmosphere for negotiations. These efforts also reflected the indirect diplomatic initiatives of America’s friends in the Middle East. This clearly demonstrated that even countries closely associated with America were not necessarily willing to support an indefinite military confrontation.
Nevertheless, the Iran war was not the only factor influencing American voters in favour of the Democrats. The rising cost of living, increasing energy expenses and several sweeping changes on the immigration front also contributed to public concerns. These domestic issues, combined with the administration’s handling of international affairs, appear to have influenced voters. The results therefore reflect a wider political message rather than merely a reaction to one particular military conflict.
Taken together, these two electoral developments should make all of us reflect upon the undercurrent of change taking place across the world regarding peace and coexistence. A considerable section of the present generation appears to attach greater importance to peaceful living, dignity and mutual respect, guided by the simple motto of ‘live and let live’. Even in a country like Israel, where political policies have often left very little space for Palestinian aspirations, voices questioning the prevailing approach have continued to emerge. Their growing political significance could provide an opportunity for a more constructive thought process.
Apparently, this change may not always be visible at the level of governments and political establishments. However, at the grassroots level, people’s thinking seems to be undergoing a gradual transformation in favour of peace, coexistence and the dignity of mankind. In democratic countries, where people’s choices ultimately matter, such changes become visible through electoral verdicts. Kingdoms and autocracies, on the other hand, are yet to provide adequate space to this emerging thought process. For such regimes, genuine public participation and the assertion of people’s aspirations could eventually become a serious challenge to their continued existence.
The world has already witnessed enough wars, destruction, displacement and human suffering. No political or military victory can make up for the loss of innocent lives, the destruction of generations or the bitterness created between communities. Leaders must understand that military strength and political dominance cannot provide lasting solutions to problems rooted in history, identity and people’s aspirations. Only a willingness to understand and accommodate the genuine concerns of others can bring lasting peace and stability.
The time has therefore come for every world leader and political establishment to understand the changing mood and aspirations of people and take meaningful steps towards restoring an atmosphere of peace, prosperity and coexistence. Let fair and just decisions in favour of Palestine, recognition of the legitimate rights of its people and an unequivocal guarantee of Israel’s security become a torchbearer example for achieving wider peace in the world.
Fida Iqbal can be reached at mail@fidaiqbal.com
