What is the Root Cause of the Middle East Conflict A Response to Bishop Riah Anglican Bishop of Jerusalem.
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Understanding the Middle East Conflict: A Response to Bishop Riah
Introduction
I recently attended a talk by Bishop Riah, the Anglican Bishop of Jerusalem, at All Hallows on the Wall Church in London. Organized by Rev. Garth Hewitt of the Amos Trust, the event focused on the Middle East's complex situation.
Bishop Riah's Perspective
Bishop Riah emphasized his commitment to peace, advocating for a resolution in Jerusalem to achieve global harmony. He pointed out the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and the construction of the separation wall as root causes of unrest. These barriers disrupt Palestinian movement and separate families, resulting in significant unemployment and the loss of Palestinian land to Israeli settlements.
He argued for a two-state solution, suggesting Israel should retreat to pre-1967 borders. According to him, Arab rejectionism of Israel's existence isn't the issue; rather, it's about Israeli aggression. He compared potential regional harmony to Switzerland, imagining peaceful co-existence.
Bishop Riah highlighted the Church's role in supporting Palestinians and criticized the economic impact of the occupation. He argued that terrorism is a reaction to these injustices, and would cease if a fair settlement is reached.
A Critical Response
The Role of Arab Rejectionism
While Bishop Riah focused on Israeli actions, he didn’t address Arab rejectionism as a factor. Historically, wars in 1948, 1967, and 1973 were initiated by Arab states aiming to destroy Israel. Offers to return territories for peace after the Six-Day War were rejected at the 1967 Khartoum Conference, declaring no recognition of Israel.
The Influence of Hamas
The recent election of Hamas, a group committed to Israel's destruction, adds complexity. Their charter explicitly calls for the elimination of Israel and reflects broader sentiments in parts of Arab society against Israel's existence.
Impact on Arab Christians
Bishop Riah, representing Arab Christians, overlooked challenges they face from Islamic fundamentalism in Palestinian territories. Reports indicate persecution, threats, and rights violations against Christians, yet his narrative focused solely on Israel.
Terrorism and the Security Barrier
Terrorism against Israeli civilians necessitated security measures like the separation wall. Bishop Riah didn’t address terrorism's role in impeding peace. A cessation of terrorism and incitement is crucial, with key influences lying within Islamic clerics and the broader international community.
Settlements and Their Impact
While settlements wrongdoing towards Palestinians can't be ignored, it's essential to recognize terrorism's impact on employment and economic opportunities. Past harmony allowed mutual trade and work, disrupted by ongoing terrorism and political instability.
Misallocation of Aid
Significant aid meant for Palestinians has been misused or gone unreported, exacerbating living conditions. Economic conditions pre-1993 were notably better, and corruption and mismanagement have contributed to current difficulties.
Conclusion
A comprehensive dialogue on the Middle East conflict requires acknowledging both Israeli and Palestinian perspectives. Simplistic narratives hinder constructive conversation. For genuine progress, all sides must confront uncomfortable truths about rejectionism, terrorism, and governance failures. Collaboration and open discourse remain vital in pursuing peace.
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