ACTORS

PALESTINIAN SIDE

THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE

Goals

  1. Statehood and Sovereignty: A central goal for many Palestinians is the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state. This includes the territories of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem.
  2. Right of Return: Many Palestinians assert the right of Palestinian refugees and their descendants to return to their homes and lands that they left during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. This issue is often linked to the broader question of a just resolution to the refugee problem.
  3. End of Occupation: Palestinians seek an end to what they perceive as Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
  4. Jerusalem as the Capital: Palestinians often express a desire for East Jerusalem to be the capital of their future state. The status of Jerusalem is a sensitive and critical issue in the conflict.
  5. Cultural and Religious Identity: Preservation of Palestinian cultural and religious identity, particularly in the face of challenges posed by occupation and displacement, is a significant goal for many Palestinians.
  6. Justice and Human Rights: Palestinians advocate for justice, human rights, and the recognition of their dignity. This includes addressing issues such as settlements, checkpoints, and restrictions on movement.
  7. Unity and Reconciliation: Achieving internal Palestinian unity and reconciliation between political factions, particularly Fatah and Hamas, is seen as important for presenting a united front in negotiations and addressing the challenges posed by the conflict.
  8. Economic Development: Palestinians aspire to build a thriving and independent economy, free from the constraints imposed by the conflict and economic blockades.

Likely To Accept this Plan. This Plan Addresses all of these goals.

    MAHMOUD ABBAS

    Mahmoud Abbas: President of the Palestinian Authority and Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). He has been a key figure in Palestinian politics for many years.

    Background

    1. Born in West Bank
    2. Family became refugees. 
    3. Became part of the underground
    4. Elected
    5. History of Bad Relations with Hamas and other Palestinian Militant groups
    6. Mostly Non-Violent
    7. Was a Holocaust Denier in the past

    Goals

    1. Negotiations for a Two-State Solution: Abbas has consistently expressed support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This solution envisions the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, with mutually agreed-upon borders. Abbas has advocated for negotiations to address core issues, including borders, the status of Jerusalem, security arrangements, and the rights of Palestinian refugees.
    2. International Recognition: Abbas has sought international recognition for the State of Palestine. The Palestinian Authority, under his leadership, has pursued recognition through international forums, seeking support for Palestinian statehood and rights.
    3. Peaceful Resistance: Abbas has generally advocated for a policy of non-violence and peaceful resistance. He has emphasized diplomatic and political efforts to address the aspirations of the Palestinian people and achieve national goals.
    4. Ending Israeli Occupation: A central goal for Abbas has been the end of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. This includes the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip. Abbas has called for the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state.
    5. Unity among Palestinians: Abbas has sought to foster unity among Palestinians, including reconciliation efforts between Fatah, the political party he leads, and Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip. Achieving internal Palestinian unity has been considered crucial for strengthening the Palestinian position in negotiations and international diplomacy.
    6. International Support: Abbas has sought international support for the Palestinian cause. This involves engaging with the international community, seeking diplomatic backing, and working toward the fulfillment of Palestinian rights through international mechanisms.

    Likely To Accept Plan This Plan Addresses all of his consistently stated goals.

      ISMAIL HANIYEH

      Leader of Hamas, a Palestinian political and militant group. Haniyeh has been a prominent figure in Gaza.

      Background Information

      1. Born in a Refugee Camp
      2. Participated in the first and second Intifada
      3. Was imprisoned by Israel
      4. Has a bad relationship with the Palestinian Authority
      5. Leader of Hamas responsible for the October 7th Attack.
      6. Is a millionaire, is this a possible sign of corruption? 

      Goals

      1. Resistance and Opposition to Israeli Occupation: Haniyeh, representing Hamas, has consistently advocated for resistance against what they view as Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. This includes opposition to the presence of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
      2. Establishment of a Palestinian State: While Hamas's ultimate goal has historically been the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, the group's approach differs from that of the Palestinian Authority led by Mahmoud Abbas. Hamas has not officially endorsed a two-state solution and has been critical of past peace agreements between the Palestinian Authority and Israel.
      3. End of the Gaza Blockade: Haniyeh and Hamas have been vocal about ending the economic blockade on the Gaza Strip, which has had significant humanitarian consequences for the residents of Gaza. They seek greater freedom of movement for people and goods in and out of the territory.
      4. Reconciliation and Unity: Haniyeh has expressed the importance of Palestinian unity and reconciliation. Efforts to bridge the political divide between Hamas and Fatah, the party led by Mahmoud Abbas, have been part of broader attempts to present a unified Palestinian stance in negotiations and dealings with Israel.
      5. Right of Return for Palestinian Refugees: Like many Palestinians, Haniyeh and Hamas have emphasized the right of Palestinian refugees and their descendants to return to their homes and lands. This is a core issue for them in any negotiations or discussions regarding the resolution of the conflict.
      6. Religious and Cultural Identity: Hamas, as an Islamist organization, also places significance on the preservation of Palestinian cultural and religious identity. This includes the status of Jerusalem, which is a key issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

      Possibility Could Accept the Plan

      1. Many of his goals he advocated for are addressed in this plan, but he has before stated he would never recognize Israel
      2. He will likely be wanted for responsibility of the October 7th Attacks.
      3. His integrity may be compromised, he may be vulnerable to foreign influencers. 
      4. His acceptance of it would require him to make a self-sacrifice. This may be out of character for him.

        MOHAMMED DEIF

        Background

        1. Head of the Hamas Military Wing
        2. Born in a refugee camp
        3. Instrumental in creating the Hamas Military Wing
        4. Behind many suicide bombings and terrorist activities.
        5. Wife, infant son, and 3 year old daughter were Killed in a Israeli airstrike targeting him
        6. Planned the October 7th Attack.

        Goals (Deif and Other Hardliners)

        1. Rejection of Recognition of Israel: Some Palestinian hardliners reject the recognition of Israel's right to exist as a sovereign state. They may adhere to ideologies that question the legitimacy of Israel's establishment.
        2. Resistance Through Armed Struggle: Some hardline factions support or engage in armed resistance against Israeli forces, including the use of militant tactics such as rocket attacks, bombings, or other forms of violence.
        3. Opposition to Negotiations: Hardliners may oppose or be highly skeptical of diplomatic negotiations with Israel, viewing such talks as ineffective or compromising fundamental Palestinian rights.
        4. Rejection of Two-State Solution: Some hardline factions reject the idea of a two-state solution, which envisions the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. They may advocate for a single, binational state instead.
        5. Emphasis on Right of Return: Hardliners often emphasize the right of Palestinian refugees and their descendants to return to their homes and lands lost during the establishment of Israel in 1948. This position can be a significant obstacle to certain peace proposals.
        6. Assertion of Palestinian National Identity: Palestinian hardliners often emphasize the importance of preserving Palestinian national identity, cultural heritage, and resistance to what they view as external attempts to erase or dilute these elements.
        7. Religious and Symbolic Significance of Jerusalem: Hardliners may place significant importance on the religious and symbolic significance of Jerusalem and oppose any concessions regarding the city's status in potential peace agreements.

        Will Not Likely Accept Unless Militarily Defeated

        1. Harliners such as Mohammed Deif are unlikely to forgive Israel for deaths of their loved ones. As long as their is support for them to continue fighting, they will. 
        2. This Plan Addresses half of their goals, but their unwillingness to recognize Israel, to have a two state solution (they want Israel gone), to pursue non-violent means, and to even negotiate means they have to be defeated on the battlefield.  
        3. Post Military Defeat, their case against Israel will be weakened by this roadmap as long as their is some measurable success towards peace.
        4. It is Possible that if Hezbollah does not get involved in the fighting, they may be made to negotiate. This would require considerable consequences for them if they do not enter the peace process.

        IRAN

        Goals

        1. Opposition to the Existence of Israel: Iran, under the leadership of the Islamic Republic, has consistently voiced strong opposition to the existence of the State of Israel. Iranian officials, including the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have made statements calling for the elimination of Israel.
        2. Support for Palestinian Resistance Movements: Iran has been a key supporter of Palestinian resistance movements, particularly Hamas and Islamic Jihad. The Iranian government provides financial, logistical, and political support to these groups, which are involved in armed resistance against Israel.
        3. Advocacy for a One-State Solution: Iran has expressed support for a one-state solution, where Israel would cease to exist as a separate, independent state, and instead, a single state would include both Israelis and Palestinians. This aligns with Iran's ideological opposition to the establishment of Israel. 
        4. Jerusalem as the Capital of a Palestinian State: Iran advocates for Jerusalem (Al-Quds) as the capital of a future Palestinian state. The status of Jerusalem is a central and sensitive issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
        5. Solidarity with the Palestinian People: Iran frames its involvement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a form of solidarity with the Palestinian people. The Iranian government often uses rhetoric emphasizing shared Islamic identity and a commitment to supporting the rights of Palestinians.
        6. Criticism of Peace Process: Iran has been critical of the peace process and diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Iranian leadership has argued that such processes have not achieved justice for the Palestinians and have allowed Israel to continue its policies.

        Unlikely to Support Peace Plan. 

        1. They are sworn enemies of Israel and do not recognize its right to exist. 
        2. If Iran truly cares about the Palestinian people, then it could support this plan, if it believes it is in the people's best interests.

        Possible Courses of Action for Peace Plan

        1. Make a separate deal with Iran to get them to support peace.
        2. Include Iran in the Process as an Observer, such as the United States. 
        3. If Iran does not support a peaceful resolution, especially one like this where a free Palestinian state is established, one should ask whether Iran truly cares about the Palestinian people, or only views them as pawns.

          ISRAELI SIDE

          ISRAELI PEOPLE

          Goals

          1. Security and Defense: Ensuring the security and safety of Israeli citizens is a top priority for many Israelis. They seek measures to protect against security threats, including terrorism and military conflicts.
          2. Recognition and Acceptance: Israelis often express a desire for recognition and acceptance of Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state. This includes diplomatic recognition from neighboring countries and a resolution to the conflict that acknowledges Israel's legitimacy.
          3. Peaceful Coexistence: Many Israelis aspire to live in peace and coexistence with their neighbors. A negotiated settlement that addresses the concerns and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians is a common goal.
          4. Jerusalem as the Undivided Capital: There is widespread support among Israelis for Jerusalem to remain the undivided capital of Israel. This is a key issue with religious, historical, and national significance.
          5. Two-State Solution (Varied Perspectives): While opinions vary, some Israelis support the idea of a two-state solution, which involves the creation of a viable and independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. Others may have reservations or prefer alternative frameworks for resolving the conflict.
          6. Economic Prosperity: Israelis often seek economic prosperity and development. Economic stability is viewed as crucial for the well-being of Israeli society and for building a foundation for peace.
          7. Human Rights and Democratic Values: Many Israelis value human rights, democratic principles, and the rule of law. There are those who advocate for fair treatment of all citizens, regardless of their background, within Israel's borders.
          8. National Identity and Heritage: Preservation of Israel's national identity and cultural heritage is a goal for many Israelis. This includes a strong connection to the land and a commitment to the continuity of Jewish traditions.

          Likely To Accept the Peace Plan

          1. This Plan meets almost all of their goals.
          2. Anticipate friction with the division of Jerusalem. Devoting the Old City to the religious worship of God should appease more hardliners.
          3. A city devoted to God and not a religious institution or government is exceedingly rare, if not unique. 

          BENJAMIN NETANYAHU

          Former Prime Minister of Israel, leader of the Likud party. He served as Prime Minister for multiple terms.

          Background

          1. His family left Poland before WW2 broke out.  
          2. Served in the IDF, fighting for Israel in the War of Attrition and the Yom Kippur War. 
          3. His Brother died in a hostage rescue attempt by the hands of Palestinian hijackers. Netanyahu once stated his “hard-line against all terrorists came as a result of the death of his brother”
          4. Has been in politics for a long time.

          Goals

          1. Security Concerns: Netanyahu has consistently prioritized the security of Israel. He emphasized the need for measures to protect Israeli citizens from threats such as terrorism and rocket attacks. His government often took a hardline stance on security issues, including maintaining control over key strategic areas.
          2. Opposition to a Two-State Solution: Netanyahu's government was often perceived as less enthusiastic about the concept of a two-state solution, which envisions the creation of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. While he occasionally voiced support for a Palestinian state, critics argued that the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank under his leadership undermined the viability of such a solution.
          3. Concerns about Palestinian Recognition of Israel as a Jewish State: Netanyahu emphasized the importance of the Palestinians recognizing Israel as a Jewish state, asserting that such recognition was a fundamental prerequisite for any lasting peace agreement. This demand added a layer of complexity to negotiations.
          4. Conditions for Negotiations: Netanyahu's government often set conditions for entering into negotiations with the Palestinians, including issues related to security arrangements and the recognition of Israel's right to exist. These conditions sometimes created obstacles to the resumption of peace talks.
          5. Focus on Economic Development: At times, Netanyahu has advocated for economic cooperation and development as a means to improve relations between Israelis and Palestinians. Initiatives aimed at improving the economic situation in the West Bank were proposed as a way to foster stability.

          Possibility He Could Accept

          1. This plan addresses many of his stated goals and concerns, but specifically his security concerns. 

              YAIR LAPID

              Opposition Party Leader

              Background

              1. Born in Israel
              2. The older generation of his family was in the Holocaust.
              3. Journalist
              4. Was finance minister, fired by Netanyahu. 
              5. Prime Minister, replaced by Netanyahu.

              Goals

              1. Pragmatism and Diplomacy: Yair Lapid has expressed a pragmatic and diplomatic approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He has emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts and negotiations to find solutions to the longstanding issues between Israelis and Palestinians.
              2. Two-State Solution: Lapid has historically expressed support for a two-state solution, envisioning the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. He has stressed the need for direct negotiations to achieve a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement.
              3. Security Concerns: Similar to other Israeli leaders, Lapid recognizes the significance of Israel's security. His approach to the conflict likely includes measures aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of the Israeli population while engaging in peace talks.
              4. Economic Cooperation: Lapid has mentioned the potential benefits of economic cooperation and development as a means to improve relations between Israelis and Palestinians. Initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth in the region may be part of his broader strategy.
              5. Regional Diplomacy: Lapid has also discussed the importance of regional diplomacy and engagement in addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Cooperation with neighboring countries and involvement of the international community are factors he may consider in seeking a comprehensive resolution.

              Likely To Accept Peace Plan

                  1. This Plan meets all of his goals.

                  EXTREMISTS/SETTLERS/HARDLINERS

                  Organizations

                  1. Settlers: Some Israelis living in settlements in the West Bank are associated with more right-wing political views. The settlement issue is a contentious one in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and some settlers may hold positions that are seen as more hardline.
                  2. Far-right Political Parties: There are far-right political parties in Israel that advocate for positions perceived as more nationalistic and less open to concessions in peace negotiations. The influence of these parties in the Israeli political landscape can vary.
                  3. Opposition to Two-State Solution: Some Israelis, including politicians and activists, oppose the idea of a two-state solution and advocate for alternative approaches, such as annexation of certain territories.

                  Goals

                  1. Religious and Ideological Beliefs: Many settlers are motivated by religious and ideological beliefs, viewing the West Bank as part of the historic Land of Israel. They often see the establishment of settlements as fulfilling a biblical or historical imperative.
                  2. Security Considerations: Some settlers argue that having a Jewish presence in the West Bank enhances Israel's security by creating strategic buffers and controlling key areas. They believe that maintaining a military and civilian presence in the region contributes to national defense.
                  3. Nationalistic Sentiment: Nationalistic sentiments play a role, with some settlers viewing the West Bank as an integral part of Israel. They may see settlement expansion as a way to strengthen Israel's claim to the territory.
                  4. Economic Incentives: Economic incentives, including government subsidies and more affordable housing, attract some individuals and families to settle in the West Bank. Government policies have, at times, encouraged settlement growth.
                  5. Community Lifestyle: Some settlers are drawn to the close-knit community lifestyle offered by settlements. They may see living in the West Bank as an opportunity to establish vibrant, communal societies.
                  6. Historical and Archaeological Significance: Some settlers are motivated by the historical and archaeological significance of the West Bank. They may believe that establishing settlements helps preserve and connect with Jewish historical sites in the region.
                  7. Opposition to Territorial Concessions: Settlers often oppose territorial concessions in the West Bank, viewing such moves as compromising Israel's security and historical rights. They may resist any plans that involve dismantling settlements.

                  Divided Over Peace Plan

                  1. Plan may be enough for the less extreme.
                  2. Plan likely to encounter issues with the Settlers.

                  OTHERS

                  REFUGEES

                  There are at least 5.7 million registered Palestinian refugees living in various countries in the Middle East, including Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, and other host countries.

                  Goals

                  1. Return to their Homeland.
                  2. Basic Human Necessities.
                  3. Their Human Rights are respected.

                  Likely To Accept this Peace Plan.

                  MEDIA

                  Diverse and Divided on their coverage of this conflict. They will be a major factor in the success or failure of this plan. Their coverage shapes the information space. Trusted news sources are needed for to combat disinformation.