Friday, March, 21,2025

LASTING PEACE STILL ELUDES MIDDLE EAST REGION

An essential element in Israel’s story, often missing from the mainstream narrative, is that since it’s founding in 1948, Israel has sought peace not only with its Palestinian neighbors but also with its Arab and Muslim neighbors who initially rejected the Jewish state’s right to exist. For decades, there have been efforts to achieve peace in the wider Middle East, but after the events of 07 October, 2023 the prospect of lasting peace seems more elusive than ever.

Some of the prominent US brokered peace accords that have raised hopes but no lasting solution or peace has been achieved in the Middle East so far:-

Camp David Accords 1978. Following years of hostilities between the two nations that led to wars in 1948, 1953, 1967, and 1973, Israeli and Egyptian leadership met at the U.S. presidential retreat, Camp David, in 1978 to craft a peace deal that is still in place.

Oslo Accords of 1993 & 1995. Perhaps the most contentious peace deals brokered in the Middle East were the Oslo Accords of 1993 & 1995 that envisaged recognition of Israel by Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) and limited self-governance in Gaza and the West Bank. However, the Oslo Accords and the larger peace process were marred by violence and mistrust on both sides.

Camp David Summit 2000. Israel and the Palestinians talks between Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat negotiated under U.S. President Bill Clinton’s mediation collapsed, with deep disagreements on key issues like borders, refugees, and the status of Jerusalem leading to the outbreak of the Second Intifada further entrenching violence and mistrust.

Abraham Accords 2020. The Abraham Accords, brokered by President Donald Trump, marked a significant diplomatic breakthrough, normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations, including the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan proving that peace with Israel was possible without direct resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Status - Middle East Peace Process post October 7, 2023. Hamas’ massacre and retaliatory action by Israeli Defence Forces has slipped the region into a fragile situation. As the violence escalates, the region braces for potential conflagration, and trust erodes. The most significant barrier to peace in the region is Islamic Republic of Iran, who has become even more aggressive, attacking Israel indirectly through its proxies and directly itself. The fall of Assad and taking over by Hayat Tahrir alSham (HTS ) in Syria has further made the situation complex in the region.

The West should focus on rebuilding trust between Israelis and Palestinians who disavow terrorism while also placing responsibility on the Iranian regime for funding extremism and perpetuating instability. Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire and already exchanged three Israeli hostages for 90 Palestinian prisoners and more exchanges should follow. This news comes after the people of Syria have ousted former president Bashar Assad and seem to be cautiously putting together a new state representing all groups including Assad’s former security people.

The Uncertainties post ceasefire. Routine attacks by the Israel Defense Forces on hostile sites in Syria, Yemen, Iran, and Hezbollah, in Lebanon can’t be ruled out. A renewal of hostilities in Gaza itself will always be just around the corner. The cost of rebuilding Gaza, according to the United Nations Development Program, would be US$50 billion and fund raising for the same is a herculean task. Perhaps some oil-rich Arab states would be willing to invest in clearance and rebuilding, but they would expect genuine peace and trustworthy Israeli and Palestinian governments. Unpredictable behaviour of the US President Trump is like hanging sword on future of Gaza and Hamas. The Israeli government will control reconstruction. In the rebuilding and staffing of Gaza’s schools, universities and hospitals, the government of Israel would have a veto over anyone suspected of anti-Israel views.

Peace talks in Middle East remain superficial gestures, leaving the region trapped in cycles of conflict and the true stability will continue to be out of reach without addressing the Palestinian statehood rights. Both Israel and Palestine Authority (Government and People included) internally as well externally have divergence of views on the actual shape and status of Palestinian state and Israeli settlers in West Bank and Gaza. Efforts to de-escalate and achieve peace are frequently challenged by the involved parties, each of whom has distinct agendas and varying degrees of control over local factions. The major issues like the disarming of the militant nonstate forces to ensure security of all states and people in the region, lifting of all economic sanctions for economic development of region, Cessation of conflicts on all fronts by IDF and its neighbours and finally the responsive and responsible approach by Donald Trump are primary requisites for lasting peace in the region.

The Middle East region peace process has become much more complicated than before as the numbers of active players (both state and non state actors) have gone up and issues and scope has grown much wider than just Israel - Palestine. Recent happening like, Taking over of Syria by HTS, Enhanced interests of Turkey in Syria, Over adventurous Iran, Bolder Hezbollah and Hamas, Unpredictable Trump administration, Souring Israel- Saudi relations, and Cautious Russia and China has left little space for Palestinians to workout framework of peace process with Israel in the region.

We may see a longer ceasefire in Gaza to facilitate a complete exchange of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, and Donald Trump may broker the normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. But Gaza is more likely to be annexed, or left a wasteland, than to be rebuilt as a self-governing Palestinian society. Hamas or some successor group will continue to operate in Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon. Turkey may join Iran to continuously harass Israel obliging Israel increase military spending. The ongoing wars or conflicts in Ukraine, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Myanmar too need global attention and efforts for resolution and this may undermine efforts for peace efforts in Middle East.

India is one of the few countries that have retained balanced relations with most nations (especially Israel, Palestine and Iran) and warring factions in the region and remains an acceptable option for mediation of peace in the region along with the US, Russia and China.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Col Rajesh Bhukar, The writer is a Post Graduate in International Studies, Alumni of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and College of Combat, Mhow

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Daily Astro

21-03-2025

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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21-03-2025