Holding Onto Hope Amid Gaza’s Devastation

Gaza is a constant reminder of the failings of our humanity - that we are able to live in a world that continues to witness, yet still allows, the incessant bombardments of innocent people starving under a siege. There is another way, there has always been another way: diplomacy rooted in law, justice, and a pursuit of sustainable peace. Amidst the devastation and criticism, I want to be hopeful. Perhaps foolishly hopeful some say, but I’m clinging on to that hope, at least for now. Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates was significant. As a diplomat who served at the U.S. Embassy in Doha for 3.5 years, I have to recognize that this visit - the first ever of a sitting U.S.-president to Qatar- affirmed a major U.S. realignment vis a vis Qatar, in particular, and the Gulf, more broadly. The warming of U.S. relations with these three countries signifies a major and strategic upgrade and expansion of ties. This critical and unprecedented shift should not be underestimated. No matter your opinion of the deals that were signed during the visit, they mean that the U.S. and the Gulf are economically tied to each other for years to come and that, significantly, for the first time, Middle Eastern leaders have the U.S. president’s ear, likely even more so than traditional American allies. The loser in this equation is Netanyahu and his far-right government, who Trump did not visit on this first historic trip. I repeat this, as it must be emphasized, and elaborate on other key points, during this interview with @skynews Now the question is what will happen next… how will the Gulf’s new significant influence translate into action, particularly on Gaza. It’s time for Netanyahu and his far right extremist government to feel isolation. It’s now a diplomatic game… Let’s hope this new incredible leverage works to end the genocide in Gaza, oppose any ethnic cleansing or resettlement plan, and finally assure the creation of a Palestinian state - for the sake of peace, justice, and yes also security/stability which is in the interest of the entire region.