Assignment 03

HUM112-Islamic Studies

Submitted by:
Rana Muhammad Zunair Ilyas
FA23-BCS-148
A
Submitted to:
Sir Hafiz Muhammad Zohaib
Submitted on: December 10, 2023

Department of Computer Science

COMSATS University Islamabad
Lahore Campus
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 UNITY AMOUNG MUSLIMS IN CONTEXT OF WAR IN
GAZA

 INTRODUCTION:
The conflict in Gaza has been a matter of concern for many Muslim nations. Iranian
President Ebrahim Raisi has expressed regret at the “lack of unity” among Muslim
countries in response to the war between Israel and Gaza’s rulers Hamas. He
suggested that greater coordination across the Muslim world could have prevented
Israel’s ongoing bombing of the Gaza Strip, which followed Hamas’ brutal attacks
that killed some 1,400 people in Israeli territory, most of them civilians
1. The Muslim World League (MWL) organization has also called for unity from all
countries and organizations in the world to stop violence, especially in Gaza,
Palestine.
 Background information:
Key historical events and factors contributing to the conflict
include:

British Mandate (1920-1948): After World War I, the League of Nations granted
Britain the mandate to govern Palestine. Jewish and Arab communities developed,
and tensions between them increased.

Partition Plan (1947): The United Nations proposed a partition plan to divide
Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states. Jerusalem was to be an international
city. While Jewish leaders accepted the plan, Arab leaders rejected it, leading to the
Arab-Israeli War of 1948.

Creation of Israel (1948): Israel declared independence on May 14, 1948. The
neighboring Arab states, along with local Arab militias, opposed the establishment of
Israel, leading to the first Arab-Israeli war.

Gaza Strip and West Bank (1967): During the Six-Day War in 1967, Israel
occupied the Gaza Strip (previously administered by Egypt) and the West Bank
(previously controlled by Jordan).

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 Israeli Disengagement from Gaza (2005): In 2005, Israel unilaterally withdrew its
settlements and military forces from the Gaza Strip. However, Israel maintained
control over Gaza's borders, airspace, and maritime access.

Hamas Control (2007): In 2007, Hamas, an Islamist political and militant group,
took control of Gaza after winning legislative elections and engaging in a conflict
with the rival Fatah faction. This division further complicated efforts to resolve the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

 Importance of unity among Muslims:

The importance of unity among Muslim nations in the context of conflict is

significant and multifaceted. Here are several reasons why unity is considered crucial:

Strength in Numbers:

Unity among Muslim nations provides a collective strength that can be influential on
the international stage. A united front can have a more substantial impact in
addressing common challenges, whether political, economic, or security-related.
Solidarity and Support:

In times of conflict, unity fosters a sense of solidarity and support. When Muslim
nations stand together, they can provide moral, diplomatic, and, in some cases,
material support to one another, reinforcing the idea of a shared identity and common
interests.
Effective Resolution of Conflicts:

Collective efforts can be more effective in resolving conflicts. By working together,

Muslim nations can contribute to peaceful negotiations, dialogue, and diplomatic
solutions. Unity can be a powerful tool for conflict resolution and prevention.
Economic Cooperation:

Unity enables greater economic cooperation among Muslim nations. By forming

alliances and trading blocs, these nations can enhance their economic strength,
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 stimulate development, and address common challenges related to poverty and
economic inequality.
Cultural and Religious Identity:

Unity reinforces a sense of shared cultural and religious identity among Muslim
nations. This shared identity can be a source of strength, resilience, and motivation,
fostering a sense of belonging and common purpose.
Humanitarian Assistance:

Unity facilitates the coordination of humanitarian efforts in times of crisis. When

Muslim nations work together, they can respond more effectively to natural disasters,
conflicts, and other emergencies by pooling resources and expertise.
Global Influence:

A united front increases the global influence of Muslim nations. It allows them to
present a cohesive voice on international issues, shaping policies and decisions that
affect the Muslim world. Unity can lead to increased representation in international
organizations and forums.
Countering Islamophobia:

Unity among Muslim nations can contribute to countering Islamophobia and

dispelling stereotypes. By presenting a united and diverse front, Muslim nations can
challenge misconceptions and promote a more nuanced understanding of Islam and
Muslim societies.

 Examples of Muslim nations not working together:

There have been instances in which Muslim nations have not worked together
effectively or have had differences in addressing conflicts within the Muslim world.
Some examples include:

Syrian Civil War:

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The Syrian conflict, which began in 2011, has witnessed varying levels of
involvement and support from different Muslim nations. While some countries in the
region, such as Iran and Russia, have supported the Syrian government, others, like
Turkey and certain Gulf states, have supported opposition groups. These differing
stances have contributed to ongoing complexities and challenges in finding a unified
solution to the conflict.
Yemen Civil War:

The conflict in Yemen, which escalated in 2014, has seen a division among Muslim
nations. Iran has been accused of supporting Houthi rebels, while a coalition led by
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates has intervened on behalf of the Yemeni
government. The involvement of these external actors has deepened divisions and
complicated efforts to find a resolution.
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Crisis:

In 2017, a diplomatic crisis erupted among Gulf nations, with Saudi Arabia, the
United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Egypt severing ties with Qatar, accusing it of
supporting terrorism and having close ties with Iran. This division within the GCC
highlighted the lack of unity among key Muslim nations in the region.
Palestinian Political Division:

The Palestinian territories have experienced internal divisions between Fatah, which
controls the West Bank, and Hamas, which governs the Gaza Strip. This political split
has hindered efforts to present a unified Palestinian front in negotiations with Israel,
contributing to ongoing challenges in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Differences in Approaches to Extremism:

Muslim nations often have different approaches to dealing with extremist groups and
ideologies. Some countries may prioritize security measures, while others may focus
on addressing the root causes of extremism. These differences can lead to varying
levels of cooperation in counterterrorism efforts.
Kashmir Conflict:

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 The Kashmir conflict involves territorial disputes between India and Pakistan. While
both countries have Muslim-majority populations, their approaches to the issue differ
significantly. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has expressed concern
over the situation, but internal differences among member states have limited a
unified stance on the matter.
 Benefits of unity in conflict of Gaza:
Unity among nations in addressing the conflict in Gaza can bring about
several significant benefits, given the longstanding and complex nature of the Israeli-
Palestinian conflict in the region. Here are some potential advantages:

Increased Diplomatic Leverage:

A unified stance among nations can enhance diplomatic leverage. By presenting a

collective voice, nations can exert more influence in international forums,
negotiations, and peace talks, potentially leading to more constructive and equitable
solutions.
Effective Mediation and Conflict Resolution:

Unity facilitates more effective mediation and conflict resolution efforts. Coordinated
diplomatic initiatives can help bridge differences, build trust, and create a conducive
environment for meaningful negotiations between the parties involved.
Humanitarian Assistance and Reconstruction:

A unified approach allows for better coordination of humanitarian assistance. Nations

can work together to provide aid to affected populations in Gaza, addressing
immediate needs and contributing to long-term reconstruction efforts.
Enhanced Regional Stability:

Unity contributes to regional stability by fostering cooperation and reducing tensions.

A collective effort to address the root causes of the conflict can help create a more
stable environment in the broader Middle East.
International Support and Solidarity:

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 Unified action can garner increased international support and solidarity. The backing
of a coalition of nations may lead to more robust support from the international
community, whether in terms of diplomatic pressure, economic assistance, or
peacekeeping efforts.
Promotion of a Two-State Solution:

A unified front can reinforce the international consensus supporting a two-state

solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This consensus envisions the establishment
of an independent and viable Palestinian state alongside Israel, with mutually agreed-
upon borders.
Counteracting Extremism and Radicalization:

Unity in addressing the Gaza conflict can contribute to efforts to counter extremism
and radicalization. By addressing underlying grievances and promoting a political
resolution, nations can work together to create an environment less conducive to
radical ideologies.
Joint Security Measures:

Collaborative security measures can be implemented more effectively through unity.

Nations can coordinate efforts to ensure the security and stability of the region,
addressing concerns related to terrorism and the proliferation of weapons.
Economic Cooperation and Development:

Unity can pave the way for economic cooperation and development initiatives. Joint
projects and investments can stimulate economic growth in the region, creating
opportunities for the people of Gaza and contributing to overall stability.
Long-Term Reconciliation:

A unified approach emphasizes a commitment to long-term reconciliation. By

working together, nations can contribute to building trust between the conflicting
parties, fostering an environment where peaceful coexistence becomes more
achievable.
 Conclusion:

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 In conclusion, the benefits of unity among nations in addressing the conflict
in Gaza are substantial and far-reaching. By presenting a collective and coordinated
front, nations can enhance their diplomatic leverage, contribute to effective conflict
resolution, and foster regional stability. The potential positive outcomes include
increased international support, better humanitarian assistance, and a strengthened
commitment to a two-state solution. Additionally, unity provides a platform for
addressing root causes, countering extremism, and promoting economic development
and cooperation. However, it's essential to recognize the inherent challenges in
achieving and maintaining unity, given the complex historical and geopolitical
dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Nevertheless, the pursuit of unity remains
a crucial and worthwhile endeavor, as it holds the promise of creating a more stable,
peaceful, and prosperous future for the people of Gaza and the broader Middle East.
Success in addressing the Gaza conflict requires sustained commitment, open
dialogue, and collaborative efforts from the international community.

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