A Comprehensive Deal for Peace in the Middle East
Seeking Peace in the Middle East
A Comprehensive Path to Resolution
The key to fostering peace in the Middle East lies in ensuring the security and well-being of all nations and individuals within the region. With the dawn of a new U.S. presidency, the time is ripe for a comprehensive peace agreement.
Such an agreement would entail:
- Disarmament of militant non-state forces
- Normalization of diplomatic ties among all regional nations
- Establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel
- Protection of Lebanon's and Syria's territorial integrity
- Commitment to preventing nuclear proliferation
- Lifting of economic sanctions as a catalyst for economic growth
Breaking Down Barriers of Fear and Hatred
Many Middle Eastern citizens live in terror, convinced that their adversaries are their sworn enemies. False narratives of hatred fuel these fears, compelling us to dispell these illusions.
As President John F. Kennedy once proclaimed, "There are no permanent enemies." Let us embrace our common humanity and acknowledge our shared vulnerability.
The Cradle of Peace
The Middle East, the birthplace of civilization, has a rich legacy of monotheistic faiths that preach peace and harmony. It is imperative that we seize this moment to forge a comprehensive peace deal before nuclear devastation engulfs the region.
A Seven-Point Roadmap to Peace
The following seven measures should form the foundation of a 2025 peace agreement:
- Ceasefire across all conflict zones
- Admission of Palestine as a UN member state
- Israeli troop withdrawal from occupied territories
- Protection of Lebanon and Syria's sovereignty
- Updated JCPOA with Iran and sanctions removal
- Termination of non-state belligerent entities
- Establishment of regional peace and diplomatic normalization
Imagine the Transformation
Let us envision the joy and prosperity that will spread throughout this ancient region if its leaders and citizens embrace the path to peace. Together, we can create a future where happiness and progress prevail.
--Sybil Fares, Senior Advisor on the Middle East for UNSDSN