Peace in the Middle East possible even without force

After a discussion with fellow columnist Chris Pitts, we both became interested in the subject of a lasting peace in the Middle East.
I admit I was in general skeptical of the notion that it can be achieved. But, after considering the issue thoroughly, I’ve come up with a perspective that makes peace a possibility in a way other than through the use of force, without threats or fear This is in contrast to the bloodthirsty Bush doctrine.
Without further ado, here are four suggestions as to the future development of America’s foreign policy that I believe will allow us to offer the most effective assistance to the establishment of a lasting peace in the Middle East.

1) Encourage rational government.

At first, this seems like a tall order. How, indeed, are we to accomplish such a goal? The answer is simple: by exemplifying it. The reason it seems hypocritical for the U.S. to invade certain dictatorships and overthrow them is the issue of other dictatorships—such as Saudi Arabia — that receive our political and financial support!
If we are to escape our moral imperatives by abandoning logic, then we are surely doomed. But, if we acknowledge the mistakes we have made, set forth a more reasonable, collaborative course of action, then we have opened the doorways— governments will not need fear any longer to control and convince us of their authority. The international community will respect us far more when we quit acting aggressively — and suspect us far less when we start being honest about our motivations.

2) Encourage proportionate and just uses of military strength.

We cannot support a war against unjust violence if our own use of violence is unjust. The moral basis for our war on terrorism is founded upon America’s integrity in choosing fair uses of its military. For example, we tread a thin ethical line with the occupation of Iraq and Afghanistan. At what point does “liberation” become domination? Once again, we must encourage proportionate responses to unprovoked attacks.

3) Encourage open-minded discussion.

Much of the Middle East conflict is a result of a refusal to hear. The possibility of peace demands an assumption which seems almost irrational at first: All behavior has a positive intention behind it. This assumption of mutual goodwill establishes credibility. Faith, in another’s words, is the starting point of a dialogue. We must actively promote peace through opening the lines of communication. We must focus on what we have in common. Even if it seems that we have little more than our strict humanity, this is at least an opening. What’s the best way to begin this discussion? Ask questions and do not be afraid of what you might hear, and answering questions honestly. Then, rationally and cooperatively choosE and implement a plan of action.

4) Encourage multilateralism.

The Neoconservative War on Terror and the Islamist’s jihad are both symptoms of a long-coming conflict resulting from increasing globalization. In a world which increasingly seems more absurd and inhuman than personal and compassionate, it is of the utmost importance that we take concern for the well being of others just as we would care for ourselves. Throughout history, examples of such selflessness have arisen, most of which were nonpolitical (with Gandhi providing a poignant counterexample). But, the point is this: We are more connected to one another now than ever before, and at the same time, more isolated. Only by working together, taking responsibility, and encouraging real freedom can we achieve our goal. Only when our local thinking becomes global can a lasting peace even be possible. And even then, such peace can only be achieved through language.
What’s the big point here? War cannot establish peace and invasion cannot create freedom. The most important step is that we must believe in peace. As Martin Luther King put it,  “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. Hate multiplies hate, violence multiplies violence, and toughness multiplies toughness in a descending spiral of destruction. The chain reaction of evil — hate begetting hate, wars producing more wars — must be broken, or we shall be plunged into the dark abyss of annihilation.”

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Posted by Colonnade Archives on Sep 22 2006. Filed under Opinion. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry