The Conflict Between Israel and Palestine: The Need for Deliberate Peace-Building Language

In my capacity as a human rights advocate, I have frequently been asked to share my thoughts and insights on the ongoing, complex situation between Israel and Palestine. Yet, I have consciously chosen to remain silent on this specific issue, not out of indifference, but due to the sheer complexity and intricacies involved. This conflict is deeply rooted in history and carries a multitude of perspectives, making it immensely challenging for individuals, even those well-versed in the subject, to fully comprehend and adequately articulate all the factors at play.

I am deeply concerned for Israeli and Palestinians, having worked in the region for many years. I want to see peace between Israel and Palestine so that diversity is celebrated rather than a source of division.

I believe there is a significant contributing factor to the continued escalation of the situation and can be addressed in a relatively short, and rather basic, response. This issue is the noticeable absence of peace-building language in dialogues surrounding the conflict. This lack of diplomatic and reconciliatory language is not only a symptom of the problem but also a key contributor to the ongoing tensions.

The absence of peace-building language that actively promotes mutual understanding, and reconciliation has profound and far-reaching implications. This deficiency doesn't merely serve to intensify the existing discord. Rather, it also perpetuates a vicious cycle of misunderstanding, resentment, and hostility, which continuously feeds into itself, creating a feedback loop of negativity.

Moreover, the international community's reluctance or outright failure to employ language that encourages open dialogue, fosters mutual understanding, and shows respect for differing perspectives, indirectly aggravates the already smoldering flames of conflict. Instead of extinguishing these flames, we're inadvertently fueling them, causing them to grow larger and burn hotter.

This misuse of language does more than just fuel conflict; it divides people, societies, and nations, creating a clear demarcation line between different factions. It forces individuals to pick a side, to align themselves with one group or another. This action further polarizes the situation, enhancing the us-versus-them mentality and driving a wedge deeper into already fracturing relationships. The implications of this division reach far beyond the immediate conflict, seeding the ground for future discord and strife.

Therefore, it is imperative that we all bring peacebuilding language to the forefront of all discussions, and that we all work together, towards fostering a discourse that prioritizes peace, reconciliation, and mutual respect. If we fail in this, we fail humanity.

History reflects that no armed conflict between two warring parties has ever had only one side entirely blameless. While identifying the guilty is important, we must remember that assigning blame only intensifies existing misunderstandings and hostilities, thereby fueling the conflict. Indeed, substantial evidence suggests that the parties involved in this particular conflict have, like any other, initiated indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian structures, resulting in a disproportionate loss of life, including children. Therefore, both sides bear the responsibility for all lives lost, regardless of whose life it is. Both sides bear the responsibility to prevent further loss of innocent life, as do we.

Judgements and blame are not ours to decide.

When instances of suspected war crimes arise, it is of utmost importance that they are immediately brought to the attention of the International Criminal Court of Justice. A comprehensive and meticulous investigation should then be conducted to ensure that the full extent of the truth is uncovered, and justice is served.

It is my opinion, that the opinions of the international community in these instances - the media, the general population, and various protest groups - should be limited. While it's true that these entities can provide valuable perspectives and have a role in shining a light on potential crimes, they should not heavily influence or interfere with the investigative and judicial process that must remain impartial and focused on the facts. Even more so, international governments, which have shown a track record of ineffectiveness in preventing and investigating war crimes. They should exercise even greater restraint if all they will do is apportion blame to one side of a conflict.

We all play a crucial role in advocating for peace and harmony. While it may be tempting to use strong and provocative language to grab attention or spark a reaction, it ultimately undermines the goal of promoting peace. Using inflammatory language can create a hostile environment and further perpetuate the cycle of violence and conflict. It can alienate those who hold different perspectives and make it difficult to engage in productive dialogue. Instead of building bridges and fostering understanding, inflammatory language erects walls and deepens divisions.

The power of peacebuilding language.

Peace-building language emphasizes respect, empathy, and compassion. It seeks to find common ground and build connections with others, even in the face of disagreement. It invites individuals from all walks of life to join the movement for peace, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds. It opens up opportunities for collaboration and collective action.

Indeed, the conflict between Israel and Palestine is one of the most enduring and complex conflicts in modern history. One that has resulted in decades of violence, suffering, and loss for both sides. But for the sake of the lives of generations to come, we must all strengthen our efforts to promote peaceful resolutions. In doing so, it is crucial to recognize the power of language and the role it plays in shaping perceptions, narratives, and ultimately, the path to peace. The words we use have the power to inspire, heal, and transform. Let us focus less on assigning blame and more on promoting peace. Through mutual understanding and respect, a lasting resolution becomes possible. Let us begin this conversation with peace-building language at its core: you are human, I am human. We are, and all should be, entitled to the inherent dignity, equal and inalienable rights of freedom, justice and peace.

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Dr Kay Danes OAM

Kay is an international humanitarian committed to bridging communities through understanding, empathy and peace. In 2021, Kay served on the Rotary International (District 7690) Rotary Peace Fellowship Subcommittee. She is a Past President of the Rotary EClub of Global Trekkers and a recipient of Rotary?Positive Peace Academy Training Awards and one of Rotary International's Highest honors for individual Rotarians who have demonstrated exemplary humanitarian service-- Rotary's Avenues of Service Award.