The Flawed Peace Plans: Why Trump’s and Kushner’s Attempts Fail to Resolve the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict

In recent years, multiple attempts to resolve the long-standing tensions between Palestinians and Israelis have been met with frustration and disappointment. One prominent example is the so-called 'peace plan' developed by Jared Kushner, the former advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump. This plan, though well-intentioned, suffered from critical flaws that ultimately doomed it to failure. In this article, we will explore the reasons why these peace efforts have not succeeded and what the future might hold for the resolution of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Introduction to the Abraham Accords

At the heart of the matter lies the Abraham Accords, a series of diplomatic agreements aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations. While these accords did mark a significant step in the broader Middle East peace process, they have been overshadowed by the ongoing tensions between Palestinians and Israelis.

The Flaws in Trump's and Kushner's Peace Plan

Tragically, October 7, 2023, saw the Palestinians initiate a series of violent acts that delayed, and potentially derailed, any potential peace plans. However, the core issue lies in the inherent flaws of the Trump administration's approach to peace-making.

Disregard for Palestinian Concerns

Trump's peace plan, known as the "Deal of the Century," was characterized by a paternalistic and dictatorial approach. According to the plan, the U.S. side, represented by Jared Kushner, essentially dictated terms to the Palestinians without their input or consent. This paternalistic stance is a common critique in peace negotiation processes, as it tends to alienate the very people whose support is essential for any lasting agreement.

Previous Fiascos

One of the key issues with previous peace plans, including those of the Trump-Kushner administration, is the failure to adequately engage with key stakeholders. For example, President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority rejected any attempts at peace long before they were developed. This rejection was not surprising, given Abbas's history of walking away from negotiations, even when offered significant concessions. In 2008, for instance, Abbas rejected the offer of a state on the equivalent of all disputed territory, effectively refusing to negotiate for an extended period under the Obama administration's potentially favorable conditions.

The Role of Bilateral Efforts

It is also important to recognize that the normalization of relations between Israel and several Arab states did not come solely from the U.S.'s peace plan. President Obama's exertions also played a crucial role in confronting these nations and making them realize they could not rely on the United States for their security and political leverage. This realization was a significant factor in prompting these countries to engage with Israel directly.

President Biden's Approach

The current U.S. administration, led by President Joe Biden, has taken a different tack in its approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Unlike its predecessor, the Biden administration seeks to reintegrate the Palestinians into the peace process and reverse many of the unilateral actions taken by the Trump administration. One of the most visible consequences of this shift has been the resurgence of tensions, exemplified by the 11-day Hamas war in May 2023. This conflict, while not directly caused by the peace efforts, reflects the ongoing challenges in achieving any lasting resolution.

Conclusion

The Palestinian-Israeli conflict remains one of the most complex issues in international diplomacy. The peace plans proposed by the Trump and Biden administrations highlight the importance of engaging all stakeholders and respecting their concerns. Until these principles are upheld, any hope for a lasting peace remains elusive. As the region continues to navigate these challenges, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for a breakthrough that could finally bring about a lasting resolution to this long-standing conflict.