Emmanuel Thomas l Sunday, August 24, 2025
TEL AVIV – It is now clear that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is not interested in any peace deal from the Islamic Resistant Movement, Hamas.
This is due to his rejection of recent ceasefire and hostage-exchange proposal just as he has always done in recent times.
The Arab and Muslim world holds considerable diplomatic, economic, and moral influence. By moving beyond statements of condemnation and embracing a strategy of unified action, they can exert real pressure to end the war, protect the Palestinian people, and work toward a just and lasting peace in the region
This attitude again highlighted the deeply entrenched nature of the conflict and the immense challenges to finding a peaceful resolution.
As the war in Gaza continues to inflict a devastating humanitarian toll, the question for the Arab and Muslim world, or the Ummah, is what concrete actions can be taken to halt the violence and bring about a lasting peace.
While public protests and diplomatic condemnations have been widespread, the limitations of these measures have become apparent.
Moving forward, the Arab and Muslim nations could consider a multi-pronged strategy that combines diplomatic pressure, economic leverage, and renewed focus on internal unity and support for the Palestinian people.
1. A Unified Diplomatic and Political Front
One of the most significant challenges for Arab and Muslim nations has been a lack of unified action. While many governments have condemned Israel’s military operation and called for a ceasefire, they have often done so individually or through broad, non-binding resolutions.
To be more effective, there needs to be a coordinated and sustained diplomatic push.
Renewed Arab Peace Initiative: The Arab Peace Initiative, first proposed by Saudi Arabia in 2002, offers a path to comprehensive peace. It provides for full normalization of relations between Arab nations and Israel in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories, a just settlement for Palestinian refugees, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Arab and Muslim leaders could re-present this initiative with a united voice, making it clear that a just resolution to the Palestinian issue is a prerequisite for regional stability and a condition for any further normalization of relations.
Leverage Relationships with Global Powers: Countries with strong ties to the United States and European nations, such as Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, can exert greater pressure on their allies.
They can use their political and economic influence to lobby for stronger, more decisive action from the United States and other Western countries, including the use of sanctions or a halt in military aid to Israel if it continues to disregard international calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian access.
Strengthen the Role of International Bodies: The Arab and Muslim world can work together to rally support for resolutions in the UN Security Council and the UN General Assembly.
While a US veto often blocks Security Council action, a united front can still put significant international pressure on all parties and isolate those who oppose a ceasefire and humanitarian aid.
2. Strategic Economic and Financial Measures
Economic power is a potent tool that has, thus far, been underutilized by the collective Arab and Muslim world. While the prospect of an oil embargo, as seen in 1973, is unlikely in today’s globalized economy, other economic measures could be considered.
Targeted Sanctions and Boycotts: The Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) could implement targeted sanctions on Israeli goods and businesses, as well as on companies that support the occupation.
A coordinated, non-governmental boycott movement could also be amplified to put pressure on corporations with a significant presence in the Arab and Muslim world.
Re-evaluating Trade and Investment: Arab nations with normalization agreements with Israel, such as the UAE and Bahrain, could re-evaluate their trade and investment relationships. This would signal that the continuation of the war and the suffering of the Palestinian people have direct economic consequences.
Redirecting Funds to Gaza and the West Bank:
A collective fund could be established by the OIC or the Arab League to provide direct and robust financial support for the reconstruction of Gaza, and for the economic development of the West Bank.
This would not only provide much-needed aid but also strengthen the Palestinian Authority and other non-governmental organizations working to rebuild and sustain Palestinian life.
3. Strengthening Internal Unity and Support
The divisions within the Arab and Muslim world have often undermined their ability to act as a cohesive force. Different nations have different political priorities and alliances, which has prevented a united front.
Humanitarian and Medical Support: Nations with advanced medical infrastructure, like Jordan, the UAE, and Qatar, can continue to provide and expand their field hospitals and medical aid. This visible and direct support not only helps the victims of the conflict but also demonstrates a tangible commitment to the Palestinian people.
Cultural and Educational Initiatives: The Arab and Muslim world can work to counter misinformation and share the Palestinian narrative through cultural exchange, educational programs, and support for journalists and media outlets that report on the ground.
Support for a Post-War Political Solution:
Beyond a ceasefire, the Arab and Muslim world must also present a united vision for the day after the war. This includes providing political and financial support for a reformed and unified Palestinian leadership, and working with international partners to ensure a two-state solution remains a viable and central objective of any peace process.
However, while Netanyahu’s rejection of a ceasefire is a significant setback, it is not the end of the road.
The Arab and Muslim world holds considerable diplomatic, economic, and moral influence. By moving beyond statements of condemnation and embracing a strategy of unified action, they can exert real pressure to end the war, protect the Palestinian people, and work toward a just and lasting peace in the region.
