New Peace Plan Increases Pressure on Israel and US as Momentum Grows for Palestinian Statehood

Strategic Insights -

A new peace plan proposes the withdrawal of Israel from Gaza and the West Bank, the disarming and disbanding of Hamas, and the creation of a unified Palestinian state. This plan, signed by 17 states, the European Union, and the Arab League, is the first time the Arab states have called for Hamas to disarm and disband. The plan also emphasizes the importance of recognizing a Palestinian state as part of a comprehensive peace plan leading to a two-state solution. Momentum is growing for Palestinian statehood, with at least 150 UN member states expected to recognize Palestinian statehood by the end of September.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new peace plan proposes the withdrawal of Israel from Gaza and the West Bank, the disarming and disbanding of Hamas, and the creation of a unified Palestinian state.
  • The plan is signed by 17 states, the European Union, and the Arab League, and is the first time the Arab states have called for Hamas to disarm and disband.
  • Recognition of Palestinian statehood is gaining momentum, with at least 150 UN member states expected to recognize Palestinian statehood by the end of September.
  • The UK, France, Spain, Ireland, and Norway have announced they will recognize Palestinian statehood, and at least 150 UN member states are expected to follow suit by the end of September.
  • The plan also emphasizes the importance of ending Israeli military action in Gaza and the need for a robust international guarantee to achieve peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
  • Saudi Arabia and Qatar have been encouraging European countries to recognize Palestinian statehood, and have backed the new peace plan.
  • The US and Israel did not participate in the conference and have criticized the plan, with the US President warning Canada that recognizing Palestinian statehood would threaten their trade deal.
  • Opinion in the US is shifting, with a Gallup poll showing only 32% of respondents supporting Israel's actions in Gaza, and 60% opposing them.

Statistics:

  • 17 states, the European Union, and the Arab League have signed the new peace plan.
  • At least 150 UN member states are expected to recognize Palestinian statehood by the end of September.
  • 60% of US respondents oppose Israel's actions in Gaza, according to a Gallup poll.
  • 32% of US respondents support Israel's actions in Gaza, according to a Gallup poll.
  • Israel is seen unfavorably by 52% and favorably by only 29% in the US, according to a Gallup poll.

Sources:

  • The Conversation -- UK -- By Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin
  • The Conversation -- UK -- https://theconversation.com/new-peace-plan-increases-pressure-on-israel-and-us-as-momentum-grows-for-palestinian-statehood-262259