Delving into the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: A Conversation with Ian Buruma

The Perilous Cycle of Humiliation

Renowned author Ian Buruma, whose prolific works span topics from historical analysis to personal memoir, recently sat down with Project Syndicate to discuss the complex dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Buruma's insightful perspective centers on the profound impact of historical humiliation and its role in fueling the ongoing violence.

Project Syndicate raised the question of how the "desire to overcome centuries of persecution" influences Israeli foreign policy, and how the resultant humiliation of Palestinians perpetuates the conflict. They further inquired about the role other nations, such as Saudi Arabia and the United States, should play in navigating this intricate situation.

A Path Away from Perpetual Violence

Buruma vehemently rejects the notion of mass deportations, such as the suggestion by former US President Donald Trump to displace the entire population of Gaza. He argues that such drastic measures would be not only illegal and inhumane but also disastrously counterproductive. It would further deepen the humiliation felt by Palestinians, exacerbating tensions and instability across the region.

The only sustainable solution, Buruma emphasizes, remains the two-state solution. This approach necessitates empowering Palestinians to govern themselves in Gaza and the West Bank. However, Buruma laments the current reality, where Israel, with US support, actively undermines this possibility, dimming the prospects of a peaceful resolution with each passing day.

"The only proper solution...that would not perpetuate instability and violence through relentless humiliation – would still be the two-state solution." - Ian Buruma