The five-day temporary truce in Gaza has come to an end, with no apparent sign of a breakthrough; it's obvious that Israel is not ready to give any concession to Palestinians, which is why peace talks in Cairo are not going anywhere. Even if both parties agree to some sort of ceasefire, as they did in 2012, what's the guarantee that Israel will abide by the truce terms and will not attack Gaza at a time of its own choosing? Aided by tactical and material support from the West, Israel is not afraid of any repercussions. Israel is well aware that no one will take the occupation case to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Even if Gaza is somehow de-militarised today, a major demand from Israel, no one can guarantee the shape resistance will take in the coming years -- we have seen the stone-throwing youth of yesteryears now firing rockets, which only means that no one can predict what happens next. There is no hope that Israel will, on its own, end building new settlements, completely pull out of occupied territories, or end Gaza's siege, or will allow Palestinians to go for an independent and viable state. The only way out is to take the occupier to the ICC and force a court judgment on Israel. After the UN vote in 2012, for a separate homeland for Palestinians, it's time for the Palestinians to knock on the doors of the ICC. Time has proved that Palestinians are hardworking and skillful people; if ever given a chance they will prove their worth. The million dollar question now is if President Mahmood Abbas's government will go for short term benefits, by not joining the ICC, or will take a decision which will change the lives of future generations.
MASOOD KHAN,
Saudi Arab, August 19.