The international force is being put in place to protect Israel as a consequence of the stalemate that is the Gaza War. And then what for Gaza? Abu Mazin to stay? Another month of war? Want to know the truth? This is the truth.

Reflections and observations from William Morris, Secretary General of the Next Century Foundation

The international community wants weak leadership in Palestine whilst an international force protects Israel from the Gazans and the ongoing misery continues. The truth is slippery. But this is the truth.

William discussed the difficulties of establishing an international force to protect Israel from Gaza, emphasizing Israel’s reluctance and the potential challenges. He suggested Canada’s potential involvement and the United Arab Emirates’ potential funding, while mentioning Saudi Arabia’s potential role in building a port. William also touched upon Egypt’s refusal of control over Gaza, the Houthis’ role in the conflict, and the missed opportunities for full-scale diplomatic negotiations. He criticized Britain’s handling of the situation and questioned the United States’ actions regarding international shipping.

William also discussed the political complexities in Palestine, focusing on the role of Hamas and the State of Qatar, the challenges of establishing a strong government in Gaza, and Israel’s reluctance to support a strong leader there. He also mentioned a potential prisoner exchange and the ongoing peace process, with recognition of Israel being dangled as a carrot. The possibility of a two-state solution was debated, with recognition of a Palestinian state seen as a key need.

International Force for Israel Protection Discussed

William discussed the complexities and challenges of establishing an international force to protect Israel from Gaza. He emphasized that while everyone would prefer an international force, Israel is unable to allow this and it may not be feasible. William suggested that Canada has experience in this area and the United Arab Emirates might fund it, while Saudi Arabia might contribute by building a port. He also mentioned that Egypt was offered control of Gaza by Israel but declined, and dismissed the idea of Israeli troops occupying the Sinai border with Gaza. He touched upon the Houthis’ role in the conflict, targeting shipping in retaliation for Gaza and flexing their muscles.

Diplomatic Negotiations and Conflict Escalation

William expressed regret over missed opportunities for full-scale diplomatic negotiations to de-escalate a conflict, specifically regarding the bombing of ships in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. He criticized America and Britain’s decision not to negotiate and their handling of the situation. William also touched on the role of Iran in potential negotiations, highlighting Iran’s history of diffusing tensions and urging calm, and questioned the United States’ actions and their impact on international shipping.

Palestine’s Political Dynamics and Peace Process

William discussed the complex political dynamics in Palestine, especially regarding the role of Hamas and the State of Qatar. He highlighted the challenges in establishing a strong government in Gaza and expressed skepticism about Israel’s willingness to support a strong leader there. He also mentioned a potential prisoner exchange and the ongoing peace process, with recognition of Israel being dangled as a carrot. The possibility of a two-state solution was debated, with recognition of a Palestinian state seen as a key need.

The image (left) shows a Next Century Foundation member in Gaza, Wael Dahdouh. He has just lost his eldest son Hamza over whose body he is mourning, having previously lost his wife and two youngest children. For background on the latest developments use this link.

The image used first above is from Hosny Saleh