In a notable policy reversal, the United States has promised to restore financial assistance amounting to at least USD 235 million to the Palestinians. This decision follows an earlier announcement of the disbursement of USD 15 million towards Palestinian coronavirus relief.
Components of the Financial Aid
The financial aid comprises USD 75 million dedicated to economic support for the West Bank and Gaza. This includes USD 10 million allocated for USAID’s peacebuilding programs. The most significant portion, USD 150 million, is intended for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to provide humanitarian aid. The UNRWA funding includes educational support for over half a million Palestinian children residing in West Asia.
Response to New Policy
The new policy is a departure from the Trump administration’s stance that nearly eliminated funding for UNRWA in 2018. The restoration of US funding, welcomed by the United Nations, could potentially result in increased contributions from other countries that had previously reduced or discontinued their aid.
Israel-Palestine Issues
The conflict between Israelis and Palestinians goes back several decades, originating from competing claims over Holy Land. Key issues encompass disputes over borders, Jerusalem, security measures, and the plight of Palestinian refugees. The 1967 Mideast War, often referred to as the Six-Day War or Third Arab-Israeli War, was a turning point in the conflict.
US Policy Changes and Stances
Under the Trump administration, the relocation of the US Embassy to Jerusalem in 2017 sparked controversy due to its perceived pro-Israel bias. The Middle East Peace Plan, unveiled in 2020, suggested limited statehood for Palestinians while allowing Israel to annex about 30% of the West Bank. This was rejected by Palestinians. Presently, President Joe Biden reaffirms the United States’ commitment to a two-state solution.
India’s Stand on the Israel-Palestine Conflict
India recognized Israel in 1950 and was the first non-Arab nation to recognize the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) as the representative of the Palestinian people. In 2014, India voted in favor of a UNHRC resolution to investigate Israel’s human rights violations in Gaza.
Palestinian Territories: West Bank and Gaza
The West Bank, located between Israel and Jordan, is currently under Israeli control. The Gaza Strip, situated between Israel and Egypt, was occupied by Israel following the 1967 war but saw its administration handed over during the Oslo peace process.
Political Factions within Palestine
Founded by Yasir Arafat in the 1950s, Fatah is the largest Palestinian political faction and has participated actively in the peace process. Another significant group, Hamas, has been recognised as a terrorist organization by the US government and won the Palestinian Authority’s legislative elections in 2006.
A Balanced Approach and Way Forward
For a peaceful resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict, a balanced approach should be pursued. The recent Abraham Accords, which normalize relations between Israel and several nations, present a hopeful step forward. All regional powers should strive for reconciliation between these two nations, guided by the precedent set by the Accords.