The Elders, a group of independent global leaders founded by Nelson Mandela, have issued a stark warning regarding the escalating conflict in Gaza. They express profound alarm at the breakdown of the ceasefire and vehemently condemn Israel’s renewed military assault. Their urgent call is for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a concerted effort by all parties to prioritize human life and actively pursue a path to peace, transcending the constraints of domestic political considerations. They emphasize diplomacy as the only viable solution and commend the initiative of Arab states, supported by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and prominent European nations, to formulate a comprehensive plan for Gaza’s recovery and transition, ultimately paving the way for a credible and lasting peace process. This region-led initiative, they believe, holds the most promise for resolving the protracted conflict.
The Elders welcome President Trump’s clarification that mass displacement of Palestinians from Gaza is not an acceptable solution, urging him to demonstrate constructive leadership by actively supporting the Arab states’ plan. They stress the critical importance of recommitting to the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire, preventing further escalations of violence, and ensuring tangible progress towards implementing Phase Two, which encompasses the release of Israeli hostages and arbitrarily detained Palestinian prisoners, coupled with the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. They unequivocally condemn Israel’s blockade of essential supplies into Gaza, characterizing the decision to halt goods and cut off electricity as unlawful, inhumane, and posing a direct threat to civilian lives, particularly children.
The Elders highlight the culture of impunity that has allowed Israel to carry out disproportionate actions across the Occupied Palestinian Territory since the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, asserting that lasting peace will remain elusive until this impunity is addressed. They express profound shock at the findings of the UN Commission of Inquiry, which documented gender-specific harms and reproductive violations committed by Israeli authorities against Palestinian women and girls in Gaza. These findings, they argue, bolster the evidence suggesting potential acts of genocide by Israel, demanding the utmost seriousness from UN member states. Simultaneously, they call for Hamas to be held accountable for the atrocities committed against Israeli civilians, including any acts of sexual violence.
Beyond the immediate crisis in Gaza, The Elders express grave concern over the ongoing annexation of Palestinian territory in the West Bank, urging all states to cease any assistance to or trade with illegal settlements, adhering to their international obligations. They condemn the brutal tactics employed by the Israeli military in the West Bank, mirroring their actions in Gaza, resulting in the displacement of over 35,000 Palestinians following operations in several refugee camps. These actions, they maintain, are not proportionate responses to any perceived threat to Israeli civilians.
The Elders underscore the urgency of diplomatic efforts, recognizing the potential of the Arab states’ plan to catalyze a region-led solution. They call upon political leaders worldwide to seize this momentum and build upon this initiative, ultimately enabling Palestinians and Israelis to achieve peace, mutual security, and self-determination. Their statement serves as a powerful plea for international action to end the cycle of violence and address the root causes of the conflict, ensuring a future of peace and justice for both Israelis and Palestinians.
The Elders, drawing on their vast experience in global leadership and peacebuilding, offer a crucial perspective on the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Their condemnation of violence on both sides, coupled with their emphasis on international law and human rights, highlights the urgent need for a just and sustainable resolution. Their call for a region-led solution, anchored in the Arab states’ plan, offers a glimmer of hope for a future where both Israelis and Palestinians can coexist peacefully and securely. The international community must heed their call and actively support efforts to end the violence, uphold international law, and create the conditions for a lasting peace.
