A rare alignment: the world stands ready, are the Palestinians?

Many Islamic scholars have held that the concept of "Waqf" means that the land (in Palestine) is held in trust for the entire Muslim umma (community), and should be protected rather than relinquished. However, a religious endowment can be interpreted in a way that allows for shared stewardship and coexistence rather than exclusive ownership.

Imam Shamsi Ali, a well-known figure in interfaith dialogue, discusses the shared roots and values of Judaism and Islam in his book Sons of Abraham (co-authored with Rabbi Marc Schneier), urging that with Judaism and Islam's shared values, heritage, and connection to the land, Muslims and Jews can find a way to honor both people's connection to the land. Similarly, the esteemed Imam Yahya Hendi pointed out Islam's clear message of interreligious collaboration and connection, and that all People of the Book are meant to come together and collaborate. The religious teachings themselves encourage both communities to live side by side as a fulfillment of God's will-Jews, Muslims, and Christians alike.

Realizing the Palestinians' opportunity

The Palestinians must not miss this unprecedented opportunity to realize their aspiration for statehood by resolving all of their conflicting issues with Israel through peaceful negotiation. Hamas in particular should accept the proposed plan of Trump, which grants amnesty to those who lay down their weapons and safe passage to those who want to leave, and under which it will relinquish control of Gaza. In so doing, they will put Netanyahu and any future Israeli government that opposes a Palestinian state on the defensive, and the Palestinians will continue to enjoy strong international backing.

My message to the Palestinians

The current Netanyahu government is now basking in the belief that they have dealt you the final blow, destroying, once and for all, your prospect of statehood. They are dead wrong! Netanyahu's merciless Gaza war has only put your cause front and center on the global stage, firmly uniting much of the international community behind your national aspiration like never before. In that sense, you have triumphed.

You must now persevere; your cause will outlive Netanyahu. However, you ought to forsake violent resistance, find justice by focusing on improving the quality of your life today, and respect the shared heritage of Jewish and Islamic traditions and ties to the land.

Your journey to liberation is in your hands if you only will it.