Notwithstanding their sectarian differences, Al-Shabaab and Houthis are in cohorts over warring with the West and its allies in the wake of the Gaza crisis.
While the Egyptian Gaza reconstruction plan is perceived as more realistic than Trump’s ‘Riviera in the Middle East’ proposal, it does not sufficiently address Israel’s concerns.
Resolution 2728, adopted by the United Nations Security Council on 25 March 2024 carries political implications beyond its text, particularly due to the US decision to abstain.
The Israel-Hamas clash diminishes prospects for the revival of the peace process and strengthens Hamas’ position as the preeminent Palestinian faction.
Israel’s argues that the Hamas does not recognize its existence, which, up to a point, is technically correct. But, a moment of reflection will show that recognition is exchanged only between states and that since Israel has prevented the emergence of an independent Palestine, it has no right to expect recognition from the other side.
Since the revolution that toppled Mubarak, Sinai has become a no man’s land where jihadists from Egypt and Gaza as well as local Bedouins have begun to engage in militant activities.
Both sides appear to have wisely avoided a gruelling battle of attrition by opting for a tactical truce - not seemingly on account of a preference for peace but because of a pragmatic recognition of the futility of further conflict.
