Editorial | Israeli-Palestinian compromise vital to secure a two-state solution

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, now more than three-quarters of a century old, has been one of the most intractable in international affairs. Yet, the moral issue involved is clear-cut. Israel, of course, has the unquestioned right and legitimacy to exist. That must be the starting point, which all nations must acknowledge, including the aspiring state for which Palestinians are fighting. Likewise, the prolonged suffering and dispossession of the Palestinians must also be recognised, along with their right to independent statehood. That is the basic moral premise and principle of justice.

On that basis, more than 140 countries have recognised the Palestinian state, starting with nations including China, India, Russia (the former Soviet Union) and Malaysia in 1988.

Understandably, Israel and its closest ally, the United States, are angry, as they fear international isolation reduces the Jewish state to pariah status. But even within the US, support for Israel is slipping, especially among Democrats and younger voters.

It should be clear to the far-right government of Benjamin Netanyahu that the almost unconditional US support cannot last. Israel may win many battles across the Middle East, but at what cost? It has long relied on both might and right to defend itself. Now, though, it increasingly only has might on its side.

That need not be the case. Instead, mutual compromise and global cooperation can secure peace and security for all sides.