Failing Diplomacy and Rising Disobedience in Palestine: A Tumultuous Quest for Resolution

Global Protests surge as UN Divisions Deepen Amidst gaza Crisis

Mexico City. – The Palestinian crisis has reignited international debate, with the United Nations grappling with internal divisions over resolutions aimed at halting violence in Gaza and establishing humanitarian corridors. While the United States continues its support for israel,a coalition of Arab nations,Latin American countries,and African blocs are pushing for a stronger stance in favor of the Palestinian people. However, the core question remains: can the international community translate words into concrete action upholding international law?

The world appears to be shifting its outlook. In recent days, eleven countries – including France, the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Belgium – have extended diplomatic recognition to Palestine, bringing the total number of UN Member States recognizing Palestinian statehood to 148. Concurrently,the General Assembly is debating the illegality of Israeli settlements and territorial annexation,with Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas urging for an international conference to fully recognize the palestinian State.

colombia’s position, under President Gustavo Petro, has been particularly noteworthy. Petro not only addressed the Palestinian issue in his UN General Assembly speech but also engaged in actions that directly challenged washington.His participation in a pro-Palestine exhibition, where he called on American soldiers to reject orders from former President Donald Trump, triggered a swift response from the U.S., which revoked Petro’s visa, accusing him of provocative and irresponsible behavior. Petro responded via X (formerly Twitter): “Fire, Trump, from that slavery that will be for generations.”

This diplomatic rupture underscores a broader trend: the rise of citizen-led mobilizations,activism,and advocacy by journalists and human rights defenders stepping in where state-level responses fall short.

The Civil Front: The Global Sumud Flotilla

alongside diplomatic efforts, a powerful grassroots movement is gaining momentum. The Global Sumud flotilla is currently en route to Gaza, facing international scrutiny and military surveillance. This initiative represents a direct challenge to traditional policies and a bold attempt to bypass official channels.

The flotilla’s progress coincides with escalating protests across the globe. Demonstrations have erupted in cities from Italy to Colombia, fueled by outrage over the ongoing violence and a growing demand to “Stop the genocide.” These movements are not confined to diplomatic rooms; they are unfolding on the seas and in the streets, driven by a collective determination to hold those in power accountable.

[Image of protest at the UN with caption: Photo: networks of France Márquez]

[Image of the Global Sumud Flotilla]

How have the failures of the Oslo Accords contributed to the current erosion of faith in traditional peace processes?

The Erosion of Traditional Peace Processes

For decades, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been framed by diplomatic efforts – the Oslo Accords, the Camp David summits, various US-led peace initiatives. Though,as of late 2025,these processes are demonstrably failing. A key indicator is the dwindling faith in international mediation, coupled with a surge in non-state actor influence and localized resistance. The recent shifts, particularly following the escalation of the Gaza war, highlight a critical juncture.

* Oslo Accords’ Legacy: While initially promising, the Oslo Accords (1993-1995) ultimately failed to deliver a two-state solution, leaving a legacy of mistrust and unfulfilled promises.

* Stalled Negotiations: Direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) have been largely stalled as 2014, with fundamental disagreements over key issues – borders, settlements, Jerusalem, and the right of return – remaining unresolved.

* US Mediation Challenges: The United States’ role as a primary mediator has been increasingly questioned due to perceived bias towards Israel, diminishing its credibility in the eyes of many Palestinians.

The shifting Landscape of International Recognition

The question of who recognizes the State of Palestine is central to understanding the diplomatic impasse. As of October 2nd, 2025, approximately 139 of the 193 UN member states recognise Palestine. However, recognition doesn’t automatically translate into meaningful political support or a pathway to statehood.

* Western Hesitation: Many Western European nations and North America remain hesitant to fully recognize Palestine, frequently enough citing the need for a negotiated settlement with Israel.

* Recent Shifts Post-Gaza: The recent conflict in Gaza has prompted several countries,including some in Europe,to reconsider their positions,with increased calls for recognizing Palestinian statehood as a means of bolstering Palestinian rights and leverage in negotiations. (Source: https://www.timesofisrael.com/who-recognizes-the-state-of-palestine-who-doesnt-and-why-does-it-matter/)

* Impact of recognition: Recognition, even symbolic, provides Palestinians with increased legitimacy on the international stage and strengthens their claims to self-determination.

The Rise of Non-State Actors and Disobedience

The vacuum created by failing diplomacy has been filled by a rise in non-state actors and a growing trend of civil disobedience among Palestinians. This isn’t a monolithic movement, but rather a spectrum of responses to the ongoing occupation and political stagnation.

* Hamas’ Influence: Hamas’ control of Gaza and its periodic confrontations with Israel continue to shape the conflict dynamic. While not representative of all Palestinians, Hamas’ actions significantly impact the political landscape.

* Popular Resistance Committees: Various grassroots resistance committees have emerged in the West Bank, organizing protests, boycotts, and other forms of non-violent resistance against Israeli occupation.

* Civil Disobedience Campaigns: Increased instances of tax resistance, refusal to cooperate with Israeli authorities, and participation in unauthorized construction are indicative of growing Palestinian defiance.

* Youth Activism: A new generation of Palestinian youth, disillusioned with traditional political structures, are increasingly taking to social media and organizing online campaigns to raise awareness and mobilize support for their cause.

The Role of Israeli Settlements and Expansion

the continued expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank is a major obstacle to peace. These settlements are considered illegal under international law, yet they continue to grow, fragmenting Palestinian territory and undermining the viability of a future Palestinian state.

* Settlement Growth Statistics: Settlement construction has accelerated in recent years, with a critically important increase in building permits issued and new settlement outposts established.

* Impact on Palestinian Livelihoods: Settlement expansion restricts Palestinian access to land, water resources, and economic opportunities, exacerbating poverty and hardship.

* Legal Challenges: Palestinian and international organizations have launched numerous legal challenges against Israeli settlements, but these efforts have largely been unsuccessful in halting their growth.

The Internal Challenges facing the Palestinian Authority

the Palestinian Authority (PA) faces significant internal challenges that further complicate the quest for resolution. These include:

* political Fragmentation: deep divisions between Fatah and Hamas have weakened the PA’s authority and hampered its ability to negotiate effectively with Israel.

* Corruption Allegations: Allegations of corruption within the PA have eroded public trust and fueled discontent among Palestinians.

* Economic Dependence: The PA remains heavily reliant on foreign aid, making it vulnerable to external pressure and limiting its autonomy.

* Security Coordination with Israel: The PA’s ongoing security coordination with Israel is controversial, with many Palestinians viewing it as collaboration with the occupation.

Case Study: The Sheikh Jarrah Evictions (2021)

The attempted evictions of Palestinian families from the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood in East Jerusalem in 2021 served as a catalyst for widespread protests and violence