Yusuf bin Alawi Addresses Regional Conflicts and the Palestinian Issue
Former Omani Foreign Minister Yusuf bin Alawi has made bold statements regarding the ongoing conflict with Israel and the broader challenges facing the Arab world. In a recent appearance on the program "Other Side," he asserted that Arab nations could resolve the Palestinian issue within months, but are hindered by Israel's dominance over regional decision-making processes.
Ibn Alawi emphasized that the United States and Western powers consistently support Israel, undermining peace efforts in the region. He described the current situation in Gaza and the West Bank as a pivotal moment for Arab nations to rally behind Palestinian support. Despite his typically reserved demeanor, he expressed that the conflict with Israel could be addressed with just six months of sustained Arab support for the Palestinian resistance. However, he acknowledged that many Arab countries are pursuing normalization with Israel, complicating unified action.
The former diplomat warned that Israel's influence extends beyond Palestine, asserting that it prevents Arab nations from adequately discussing the Palestinian plight. He highlighted the critical role of the Egyptian military in maintaining regional stability, suggesting that without its presence, Arab nations could face significant danger.
Ibn Alawi also pointed out the internal divisions among Palestinians regarding leadership and strategies for dealing with occupation, indicating that sacrifices are necessary for freedom. He called for a thorough evaluation of recent normalization agreements between Israel and several Arab states to understand their implications fully.
A Life of Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution
Yusuf bin Alawi's career spans over four decades in Omani diplomacy, marked by his calm and strategic approach to complex issues. Born in Salalah, he initially engaged in agriculture before transitioning to a diplomatic role following his involvement in the Dhofar Revolution. After aligning with the Sultan's forces, he became a key figure in Oman's foreign relations, serving as an ambassador and eventually as the Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs.
Notably, Ibn Alawi played a crucial role in facilitating the initial secret negotiations between the United States and Iran, which led to the 2015 nuclear agreement. He refrained from discussing specific details of these negotiations, emphasizing their significance in curbing Iran's nuclear ambitions. He characterized the West's concerns about Iran as primarily focused on its potential nuclear capabilities rather than ideological differences.
Reflecting on the Arab Spring, Ibn Alawi believes that the movement is not yet concluded and that the region's youth are pivotal to its future. He argues for a shift in educational paradigms that currently glorify individual leaders, suggesting that this change is essential for resolving the ongoing political crises in Arab nations. He maintains that the fate of all Arabs is interconnected, transcending national boundaries.
