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To restore peace and stability in the Middle East and to create a political path for a settlement between Israel and Palestine based on the two-state formula, regional and international players must act according to the principles of the Middle East Peace Process initiated in the early 1990s. The two-state solution is clearly outlined in UN Resolutions 181, 242, 338, 194, and 2334. This solution, proposed by the international community and accepted by the Palestinian Liberation Organization, remains the most viable path to lasting peace and stability for all. Netanyahu and his right-wing government instead adopt annexation and settlement as policy, thus hindering any prospects for peace. Hence, this essay will argue that an imposed reality of the twostate solution by the international community can definitely bring about a political settlement.
The international community needs to be reminded that negotiations are just one tool for conflict resolution; international law and arbitration are other peaceful, yet often overlooked, mechanisms that can pave the way for peace, justice, and stability. Adhering to international law provides a straightforward path toward these goals.
Local and National Elections in Palestine
For peace to be sustainable, the process must be inclusive and representative, involving youth and women not only at the negotiating table but also in senior decision-making positions. A democratic transition of power, achieved through elections at both local and national levels, is essential to ensure genuine representation and public participation; however, given the current suffering, conducting elections may seem impossible. Therefore, a unity consensus government could be an effective strategy toward democratic reform. This approach would allow all parties to participate in selecting representatives based on merit, reflecting the diversity of the Palestinian population in terms of politics, age, and gender.
Recent polls in Palestine show dissatisfaction with the existing leadership. The current technocrat government, despite the capabilities of its members, lacks public support because it was formed unilaterally by President Abbas, the head of the Fateh movement, without consulting other political factions. This unilateral decision-making has led to public dismay and undermined the democratic process.
Public opinion polls indicate that neither Hamas nor the current Palestinian leadership enjoys the public's trust. Inspired by the South African model of struggle against apartheid, Marwan Barghouti is seen as a leader...