Middle East Tensions Rise: US and Israel Ignite Fears of Prolonged Conflict

The fragile ceasefire in Gaza has once again captured global attention, highlighting the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader power dynamics in the Middle East. As the temporary truce temporarily halts violence, crucial questions arise about its sustainability, reconstruction efforts, and accountability in the region.

In this context, Abdel Bari Atwan, a prominent Palestinian-British journalist and editor-in-chief of Rai al-Youm, offers critical insights into Israel’s motives, the influence of the United States, and the future of Gaza. In an interview with Mehr News Agency, Atwan described the ceasefire as “very fragile” and expressed skepticism about Israel’s commitment to lasting peace, citing a troubling history of violating agreements.

Atwan’s observations illuminate the intricate interplay of politics, economic interests, and power that shapes Israeli policies. The devastating impact of the destruction in Gaza and the geopolitical ambitions surrounding the concept of a “Greater Israel” underscore the profound obstacles that any sincere peace initiative must confront.

Insights from Abdel Bari Atwan

Below are key excerpts from the interview with Abdel Bari Atwan:

1. The Durability of the Ceasefire

Atwan argues that the current ceasefire is precarious, stating:

“I believe this ceasefire is very fragile, simply because Israel has never been trusted. We have a lot of agreements, ceasefire agreements before and exchange of hostages and prisoners, but it never worked at all. Look at what’s happening in Lebanon after more than eight months of the ceasefire; Israel violated this ceasefire more than 5,000 times and they are raiding Lebanon and killing people nearly every day there.”

He warns that similar patterns could emerge in Gaza, mentioning that:

“So I believe the same experience could be repeated in Gaza. We would see today about nine people were killed by the Israeli raids in Gaza after the ceasefire.”

2. Challenges of Gaza Reconstruction

Atwan emphasizes the complexities surrounding the reconstruction efforts in Gaza:

“I believe the reconstruction will be a very complicated phase the conflict in Gaza, because it is more than that; Gaza is completely destroyed. Israel destroyed about 95% of the houses and of the towers of buildings in Gaza. People are homeless here. More than 2 million people are completely homeless.”

He raises critical questions regarding the reconstruction process:

• Will Israel allow reconstruction to take place?
• Who will finance this reconstruction?

Atwan points out that:

“Israel destroyed and asked the Arabs to actually finance this construction, which could cost more than 700 billion dollars.”

He believes that the situation is still delicate, asserting that:

“I wouldn’t be surprised if they come back and reoccupy Gaza again.”

3. Influence of Palestinian Statehood Recognition

When discussing the recent recognition of Palestinian statehood, Atwan notes:

“The most important thing at this stage is to maintain the ceasefire. Talking about a two-state solution or an independent Palestinian state I believe is not discussed anymore now.”

He criticizes the U.S. stance on the issue, stating:

“The United States, which sponsors this ceasefire and the so-called peace plan, does not recognize the two-state solution and a Palestinian independent state.”

Atwan also highlights the broader ambitions of Israel, claiming:

“They want to reshape the Middle East. They want actually also want to destroy the Iranian infrastructure, military infrastructure, and also the nuclear infrastructure.”

4. Accountability for War Crimes

Atwan expresses concern regarding accountability for Israeli leaders, asserting:

“Israel’s leaders aim to eliminate all Palestinians. As Trump said, they want to establish a ‘Middle Eastern Riviera’ on Gaza.”

He warns about the potential exploitation of Gaza’s resources, stating:

“Gaza is very rich in oil fields… they want to actually evacuate all the residents of Gaza in order to establish this Riviera.”

Final Remarks

Atwan concludes with a grim outlook on the region’s future:

“I believe the Middle East is still on the edge of war. As long as this American president actually is there, he is not a president of peace. He is a president of war.”

He warns that:

“As long as now they know actually there is no force to confront them, I think the Middle East will be unstable, maybe for tens of years, maybe hundreds of years to come.”

Interview by Mohaddeseh Pakravan