Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Peter Fabricius
Published on 2024-02-29 21:14:15
Daniel Taub, an international lawyer and diplomat who served as Israel’s ambassador to the United Kingdom and as one of its negotiators in peace talks with Syria, recently shared his perspective on the current situation in Israel and Palestine. He believes that now is not the time for the international community to push for a two-state solution. Taub expressed that Israel is currently in a state of war and bereavement, and it would be irresponsible to impose a solution before the wounds have had a chance to heal.
During a visit to South Africa, Taub highlighted that neither the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank nor the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) had condemned Hamas’ recent attack on Israel. He emphasized that awarding statehood to entities that support violent acts towards Israel is not a viable solution at this time. Moreover, he mentioned that the majority of Palestinians, both in the West Bank and Gaza, support Hamas, which raises concerns about the effectiveness of a two-state solution.
Taub also addressed the issue of Jewish settlements in the West Bank. While it is a topic of debate within Israel, he believes that the settlements are not the primary obstacle to reaching an agreement. The main concern, according to Taub, is the PLO’s insistence on the right of return of all Palestinian refugees to Israel. This demand raises doubts about the PLO’s intentions and its willingness to coexist peacefully with Israel.
Regarding the recent conflict in Gaza, Taub discussed the challenges of combating Hamas, a terrorist organization that uses civilian areas as shields. He highlighted the moral dilemma of targeting militants while minimizing civilian casualties. Taub acknowledged the tragic loss of life in Gaza but emphasized the need to balance the protection of civilians with the necessity of combating terrorism.
Looking ahead, Taub expressed skepticism about potential solutions for Gaza post-conflict. Suggestions such as an international force or extending the Palestinian Authority’s jurisdiction have shortcomings. He also noted that most Israelis do not want to reoccupy Gaza but see a continued Israeli security presence as necessary for the immediate future.
Taub cautioned against premature international pressure on Israel to accept a two-state solution, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a lasting peace that addresses the underlying issues of the conflict. He underscored the need for a responsible and careful approach to negotiations that takes into account the complex dynamics of the region.
In conclusion, Daniel Taub’s insights provide a nuanced perspective on the challenges and complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His views underscore the need for thoughtful deliberation and a comprehensive approach to peace negotiations that prioritizes long-term stability and security for all parties involved.
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