In these trying times, as tumultuous events unfold in Gaza and Israel, the global community is seeing a poignant reminder that lasting prosperity cannot be achieved at the cost of another’s misery. In Egypt, we have been witnesses to the cycle of violence that has defined the conflict between Palestinians and Israelis for generations. Although our earlier cautions over the instability caused by the lack of a sustainable political solution for the Israelis and the Palestinians were overlooked, the question remains: How then can we look beyond the current moment, and build a just and lasting peace for all?
By invoking mere common sense, the international community must agree on a logical call for de-escalation towards a ceasefire that puts a cap on the state of belligerency and swiftly allows humanitarian aid to reach Gazans, who have been deprived of any access to water and electricity. Israel is further poised to conduct a ground operation, with the potential for immense additional casualties on both sides. The cycle of violence is fueled by a deep sentiment of retribution, but responsible leaders must remember that obligations of states under international law and international humanitarian law must be upheld and respected at all times, so as to shield innocent civilians from the horrors of warfare.
As such, the call by Israel for the evacuation of over a million Gazans within Gaza is not only impractical but also runs counter to these legal obligations of an occupying power, and would precipitate a humanitarian catastrophe. This evacuation call further defies the notion of the two-state solution grounded in fairness and justice. Stripping citizens of their homeland and rendering them perpetual refugees does not move us closer to a permanent political solution but rather repels and fuels tormented sentiments of anguish, and thus reactions in the form of violence out of vengeance.
Until we are able to implement an early ceasefire, the safety of civilians should be our foremost priority. The United Nations should be enabled to designate humanitarian sanctuaries within Gaza, providing refuge and necessary care for those caught in the crossfire and to protect innocent civilians.
In an ever-evolving narrative surrounding the Gaza conflict, there have been false claims associating Egypt with the enforcement of a blockade and a siege over Gaza. Concurrently, there are voices advocating for Egypt to open its borders, permitting Palestinian refugees to seek sanctuary in Sinai.
Let’s peel back the layers and analyze the situation in depth. Egypt’s role should be considered against the backdrop of the Rafah Crossing, which is just one of seven entry points into Gaza, with the rest interconnected with Israel. The truth is that Egypt has not closed the Rafah Crossing; it had remained operational until the Israeli airstrikes on the Gazan side rendered it dysfunctional. Yet again, we remain fully engaged with multiple interlocutors to ensure a safe passage of the aid direly needed in Gaza, and third-country nationals into Egypt.
Egypt’s stance is clear: it cannot be part of any solution that involves the transfer of Palestinians into Sinai. Such a move would trigger a second Nakba, an unimaginable tragedy for a resilient people who have an unbreakable bond with their ancestral land.
Let us be clear, Egypt is not in the business of entertaining any proposition that would dilute the question of Palestine!
The immediate concern revolves around the escalation of violence to dangerous levels, further harming Israel’s security, and the prospects for both Palestinian livelihood and statehood. Only active diplomacy that creates a political horizon through a peaceful process, inspired by the 1991 Madrid Conference, leading to an equitable political solution, can end this historic quagmire.
Egypt is actively working with all concerned parties to ensure the protection of Palestinian citizens, and to ensure the safety and release of Israeli, U.S. and international hostages and civilian captives, but also Palestinian detainees, who are victims of an endless cycle of violence. We will pursue our close dialogue with the United States and key regional and international players on humanitarian relief efforts and continue our consultations with the United Nations to create safe havens within Gaza.
To end the cycle of violence we must recognize the decades of policies that have diminished the hopes of a just and equitable Palestinian statehood. In tandem, we must acknowledge the failed policies that have allowed radicals on both sides to dictate a dangerous course of brinkmanship that has ignited the flames engulfing both Palestine and Israel.
Egypt has always championed the cause of breaking this cycle, pushing back against radicalism, and promoting the ideals set in motion in pioneering and championing peace since the late 1970s, to create the necessary conditions and environment for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.
Today we stand at the abyss facing unimaginable violence and destruction. We must seize the moment and strive for a lasting peace, under God, based on mercy and justice.
Motaz Zahran is the Ambassador of Egypt to the United States.