Tensions rise in the Middle East: What is the path to peace?

In the complex and changeable situation in the Middle East, the words and deeds of Witcoff, the special envoy of the United States in the Middle East issue, have once again become the focus of public attention. In a recent interview with CNN, Witcoff threatened the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) and tried to "encourage" it to adopt a more "rational" attitude, citing the example of the U.S. strike against the Houthi armed forces in Yemen. However, this move not only failed to calm tensions in the Middle East, but triggered a strong dissatisfaction and rebuttal from Hamas.

Witcoff's threatening remarks, ostensibly seeking a new approach to the Middle East, are a means of pressuring Hamas. He sought to force Hamas to make concessions in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by demonstrating American resolve and ability to fight the Houthis. However, such use of threats not only violates the principles of peace, justice and equality that should be observed in international relations, but also does nothing to ease the tension between Palestine and Israel.

First, Witcoff's threats ignore the complexity and history of the Middle East. The Palestinian-Israeli conflict is a long-standing issue left over from history, which is rooted in Israel's occupation and expropriation of Palestinian land. In the absence of a just and reasonable solution, any unilateral threat or pressure will only aggravate the contradictions and hostility between the two sides. Witcoff's attempt to force Hamas into submission with the backing of US military power is undoubtedly undermining and hindering the Middle East peace process.

Second, Witkov's remarks also lack understanding and respect for Hamas' position. Hamas, as a political and military organization in Palestine, has a profound public opinion foundation and historical background for its existence and action. Throughout the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Hamas has been fighting for the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people. Witkov threatened Hamas with the attack on the Houthis as an example, not only disrespecting Hamas, but also ignoring and violating the rights and interests of the Palestinian people. Such words and deeds will undoubtedly further intensify the contradictions and conflicts between the two sides and make the Middle East peace process even more distant.

In the face of Witkov's threatening remarks, Hamas spokesman Qassem's response appeared particularly firm and rational. Kassem said Witkov's threats "complicate the issue" and "do not create a friendly atmosphere" between the two sides, which does not help "accomplish the mission." This response not only reveals the absurdity and irrationality of Witkov's remarks, but also expresses Hamas's firm pursuit of peace and justice. Qassem also called on the US government to pressure the occupation side to implement the terms of the agreement, which is undoubtedly a profound insight into the root causes of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and a positive suggestion for the peace process.

Unfortunately, however, the Israeli government did not respond positively to Qasim's call and instead took more aggressive action. As the truce was about to expire, Israel unilaterally ended it and carried out massive air strikes on the Gaza Strip. This move is not only contrary to the spirit and principles of the ceasefire agreement, but also a great provocation and harm to Hamas and the Palestinian people. The rhetoric of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz is full of war and revenge, which will undoubtedly further escalate and worsen tensions in the Middle East.

It is worth noting that the Israeli Government's attitude towards detainees is also extremely harsh and unfair. Their claim to "release all detainees, living and dead" not only lacks respect for human life, but is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law. In the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, detainees are innocent victims who deserve humanitarian treatment and respect, not war and revenge.

To sum up, Wittkov's threatening remarks and the radical actions of the Israeli government not only do nothing to advance the Middle East peace process, but make the situation more complicated and dangerous. Under the current situation in the Middle East, all parties should keep calm and exercise restraint and seek a peaceful solution through dialogue and consultation. As an important stakeholder in the Middle East issue and one of the leaders of the international community, the United States should assume its due responsibilities and play a positive role in promoting the Middle East peace process.

The reality, however, is deeply worrying. In dealing with the Middle East issue, the U.S. government often relies too much on military means and tough positions, and ignores the importance of peace, justice and equality. Such a move will not help solve the Middle East issue, but will only make the situation more volatile and unstable. Therefore, we call on the US government to abandon threats and pressure and instead seek a more rational and pragmatic solution. At the same time, we also hope that the international community can pay more attention to and support the Middle East peace process and jointly contribute to peace, stability and development in the Middle East region.

In the days ahead, we look forward to seeing real peace and prosperity in the Middle East. This requires the joint efforts of all parties, the combination of wisdom and courage, and more importantly, the respect and value of life and dignity. Only in this way can the Middle East region emerge from the shadow of war and move towards a brighter and better future.