Regional powers play a critical and multifaceted role in the Gaza peace process, often providing mediation, diplomatic leverage, and humanitarian assistance that can be more effective or locally sustainable than purely external interventions.
Key Regional Powers and Their Impact
Egypt: Traditionally, Egypt has taken the lead in mediating between Israeli and Palestinian factions, due to its geographic proximity and its interest in regional stability. Egyptian mediation has been central in facilitating ceasefire agreements, prisoner exchanges, and humanitarian aid deliveries. However, Egypt must carefully balance its relations with Israel and its own national security concerns.
Qatar: Qatar has risen as a key interlocutor, especially due to its maintained ties with Hamas and diplomatic relations with Western powers like the United States. Qatar has brokered several deals for hostage releases and truces in Gaza, and its significant financial support for reconstruction and aid has positioned it as an essential mediator.
Saudi Arabia & Gulf States: While Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states (UAE, Bahrain) may not be direct mediators, they provide substantial diplomatic support via the Arab League, push for recognition of Palestinian statehood, and facilitate pan-Arab diplomatic initiatives, including major peace conferences and multilateral contact groups aimed at driving negotiations forward.
Regional vs. External Influence
Regional mediation is often seen as more legitimate and sustainable because:
Regional powers have a deeper understanding of cultural, political, and historical nuances.
Their stakes in stability and security are direct, encouraging compromise and long-term engagement.
They can mobilize broader support through pan-Arab or Islamic alliances, presenting a more unified front for Palestinian rights and interests.
However, regional efforts also face challenges due to:
Divergent interests and priorities among regional powers.
Pressure from external actors (notably the US and EU), which can complicate or override local initiatives.
The risk that regional mediators may be perceived as biased due to their own national interests.
Conclusion
Regional powers—especially Egypt and Qatar—have proven integral in mediating ceasefires and driving negotiations in Gaza. While their influence provides essential groundwork for sustainable peace, their success often depends on support or pressure from external actors and the ability of all parties to agree on long-term solutions involving statehood, security, and reconstruction. Ultimately, a peace process deeply anchored in regional cooperation, complemented by international support, is more likely to yield durable outcomes for Gaza.
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