Topic: The Situation in Israel/Palestine
Country: Qatar
Delegate Name: Celine Rajoulh
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Qatar position papers GLIMUN 2017 committees
The Nation of Qatar recognizes the complex nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Since the ratification of UN General Assembly Resolution 181, the region has been pummeled with turmoil. Often labeled the world’s “most intractable conflict,” it is an incredibly divisive issue for those in the region. Despite the intricacy of the issue, the failure to reconcile can be narrowed to a few key issues: identity, equality, and borders. If the conflict is to be resolved, Qatar firmly believes that each concern must be addressed objectively and fully.
Both Palestinians and Israelis can trace their roots to the land in question. Because of this, each group feels an inarguable right to the land. The control of Jerusalem is a particularly delicate issue, with each side asserting claims over this city. Because of its historical importance to both groups, it is imperative to maintain its international zone status. Equality ties in closely to this point. Qatar is sympathetic to the citizens of Palestinian descent who are treated unfairly within Israeli borders. According to the Human Rights Watch, Israeli policies control many aspects of the day-to-day life of Palestinians who live in areas under exclusive Israeli control and that those policies often have no conceivable security justification. In order to create a long-term solution to the conflict, discriminatory practices in both groups must be stopped. Such a solution can be achieved through education initiatives and the cessation of biased laws.
As an Arab nation that is economic partners with Israel, Qatar is heavily invested in finding a solution that suits both parties' needs. This must start with a mutual-recognition of both states. Qatar looks favorably upon a two-state solution as per the requirements set by the Oslo Accords. This must include Israel's acknowledgment of the State of Palestine's sovereignty, which includes its right to military forces. Furthermore, Israel should cease its violation of international humanitarian law by removing its citizens from the West Bank. Qatar is looking forward to a collaborative effort from all nations and is optimistic that a holistic approach to the issue will be achieved.
