Peace Efforts between Israel and Gaza Remain Crucial
President Joe Biden reached out to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to underscore the importance of joint US-Egyptian coordination during regional conflicts. Egypt's commitment to promoting peace has been evident, including during the 2014 conflict, where Egypt played a significant role in shaping the truth.
While we won't accept the idea that this cycle of violence is inevitable, we won't back down from addressing this issue. It should never fade from international attention, waiting for the next crisis to surface. The time for sustainable solutions is now. Egypt is willing to investigate all avenues to contribute to a lasting peace in Middle Eastern core conflicts.
The US and Egypt share a responsibility to rekindle this peace process immediately. Egypt's unique position – rooted in its historical role in peace seeding, substantial contribution to the Middle East Peace Plan, proximity to the conflict, and direct impact of conflict actions on its own land – enables it to provide valuable assistance to both Israeli and Palestinian parties in their pursuit of a viable solution.
Supporting Israel's security and Palestinians' self-determination is essential; two of the most critical rights are Israel's security and the Palestinians' independence. There must be collective international effort.
Collaboration between Egypt and the US can initiate an honest and open dialogue with Israel about concrete steps Israel could take to promote peace, such as refraining from actions that could endanger its own people and Israel's status, including the occupied Jerusalem.
Simultaneously, it's crucial for Kairo and Washington to communicate the necessity for Palestinians to commit to peace. Though complete disarmament may still be a distant goal, deterring further attacks is crucial for progress. Extremist groups reluctant to pursue peace or strive for stability, regardless of their affiliations, should be restrained. Armed conflicts or military operations, regardless of the reasons, never facilitate peace and solely hinder the Two-State Solution's objective.
We must maintain the Palestinian Autonomous Authority and strengthen it. Mahmoud Abbas, President of the Palestinian Autonomous Authority, is a pivotal figure in driving future peace negotiations. His role as the Palestinian people's national leader was overshadowed by the latest Hamas conflict with Israel but is both qualified and determined to return to meaningful and valuable peace talks. Enhancing Abbas' international reputation could restore his historic position as the main peace negotiator for the Palestinian people.
Recent tensions surrounding the West Bank, including Jerusalem and Gaza, may make the long-term peace in the Middle East seem unattainable. Yet, it remains our primary goal for Israelis and Palestinians.
We should continue our path towards peace, as avoiding it could risk prolonging the cycle of despair and violence.
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As the latest truce announcement came just hours after Biden's call to Sisi, the solid partnership between Egypt and the US in peace efforts is a vital cornerstone for peace in the Middle East.
Peace negotiations will always face contrasting opinions, but international parties must respect and consider those views in their diplomatic efforts. The role of media in shaping and spreading public opinions related to the conflict requires constructive engagement, promoting fairness and understanding to contribute to a more balanced discourse.
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(The enrichment data has been integrated into the revised article.)
