Peace through Equality and Unification of Israel-Palestine

January 30, 2025

UNITED STATES OF ISRAEL-PALESTINE-

PEACE THROUGH EQUALITY AND UNIFICATION OF ISRAEL-PALESTINE.

This is a proposal for resolving the Palestinian/Israeli conflict based on equality and the belief that Jews and Palestinians may prosper if they enjoy equal rights. This plan allows Israelis and Palestinians to pursue a shared future based on a bi-national identity with a democracy that ensures security, equality, and self-determination regardless of religion, gender, race, or ethnicity.

This proposal envisions a country called the United States of Israel-Palestine, with two states similar to the states in the United States of America. In this proposal, Israelis and Palestinians will have Equal rights and be able to live and work anywhere in Israel-Palestine.

The key to this solution is EQUAL RIGHTS.

Solving this conflict would be a blessing to the world because leaving it unresolved would be dangerous for the world. What makes the Palestinian/Israeli conflict so dangerous is that half the world, three billion Jews, Christians & Muslims, are emotionally, historically, and religiously attached to the land known as Israel/Palestine. Specifically, Jews see Israel/Palestine as a necessary haven to protect Jews from 2000 years of persecution. Jews also consider Israel/Palestine as their religious and ancestral homeland. Palestinians, who are made up of Christians and Muslims, see Israel/Palestine as their current and ancestral homeland which was unjustly taken from them. Palestinians also believe that their persecution and dislocation will not end until they regain their homeland. From a religious perspective, Palestinian Christians see Israel/Palestine as the origin of Christianity and Palestinian Muslims see Israel/Palestine as the first place they were ordered to pray, before Mecca.

Today, due to the affordability of satellite TV, in even the most underdeveloped countries, billions of interested people are exposed to 24-hour coverage of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Western News stations like BBC and CNN no longer monopolize reporting news. The graphic and often emotional coverage of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict inspires the masses in the entire world, which in turn puts enormous pressure on their governments to join the fight for Palestinian rights or to break relations with Israel.

The conflict between Israel and the Palestinians has become extremely dangerous and can only be described as a ticking nuclear BOMB. Currently, only Israel has nuclear weapons in the Middle East. But Iran may also go nuclear and if it succeeds the Arabs may try to do the same. Without a doubt, no conflict on earth has the same global impact as the Palestinian/Israeli conflict.

But can this conflict be solved after many wars failed to end the conflict? The answer is YES.

Currently, there are approximately five (5) million Palestinians (Muslims and Christians) living in areas controlled by Israel, (West Bank and Gaza), who are deprived of Israeli citizenship. On the other hand, there are 750,000 Jews who live in the West Bank who are granted Israeli citizenship. These demographic statistics are at the core of the conflict. While Israel controls the borders of the West Bank and Gaza, the Palestinians living there have no rights in Israel and are unable to travel freely from their cities to Israeli cities. In contrast, their Jewish neighbors can travel and have full rights in Israel. The Jews of the West Bank have full access to Israeli hospitals, universities, courts, and public transportation while the Palestinians do not.

According to many Israeli scholars, the reason for the unequal treatment between Israelis and Palestinians is that Israel has a dilemma that it has been unable to solve from day one of its creation. Israel was created to be a Jewish state or a national home for the Jews. The problem with this goal is that Israel is not 100% Jewish. The dilemma for Israel is how to have a Jewish, democratic state with a substantial number of native Palestinian Christians and Muslims in Israel and Palestine.

When Israel became an independent country, many Jews believed that the demographic dilemma was solved after a majority of the Palestinians in the new country of Israel were forced out of their homes.

The demographic dilemma reemerged 29 years after Israel was created when as a result of the 1967 war, Israel occupied the West Bank and Gaza. The occupation of the West Bank and Gaza substantially increased the number of Palestinians under Israel's control. However, Israel refused to give citizenship or civil rights to the Palestinians in the newly occupied territories.

Currently, many Jews believe that if Israel gave equality to Palestinians in the form of citizenship and political rights then Israel would cease to be a Jewish state. Consequently, Israel has isolated the Palestinians behind huge walls without freedom of movement and none of the civil rights and freedoms enjoyed by Israelis. Israel claims that the wall was built for security reasons. Palestinians believe that the wall is nothing but a land grab because it was built on Palestinian land rather than Israeli land. Moreover, the Palestinians argue that during the first uprising (intifada), they did not use violence and Israel responded to their demonstrations with lethal weapons that killed thousands of Palestinians.

As to the security argument, the Palestinians argue that Israel does allow some Palestinians into Israel for the benefit of Israelis needing workers. Those Palestinians are checked and allowed in Israel at various checkpoints with no security risks to Israel. As to the rest of the Palestinians, under Israeli law, Palestinians are not allowed in Israel unless they have a special work or travel permit. Thus, Israel treats Palestine as if it is a foreign country but wants to exercise control over Palestine as if it is a province of Israel. This contradiction has driven Palestinians to seek statehood and independence from Israel.

Currently, the Palestinians claim that their situation under Israeli control is worse than the situation of blacks in the United States before the civil rights movement and even worse than blacks in apartheid South Africa. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has made the same argument. Palestinians point to the irony of how Jews treat them, considering that Jews have traditionally been leaders in global civil rights movements. However, the same Jews who supported equality in the United States opposed equality for Palestinians. The Palestinians interpret this contradiction as being caused by the fear of the above-mentioned demographic dilemma. Israelis respond by saying that they are a different nation from the Palestinians and have no obligation to allow Palestinians equality or freedom of movement in Israel. Palestinians respond that Israel cannot claim that they are a different nation since Israel controls the borders of Palestine and controls the movement of Palestinians.

Two State Solution

Over the last 30 years, the world has pursued the two-state (two-country) solution without much success. However, contrary to unanimous belief, neither the Palestinians nor the Israelis are to blame for the failure of the two-state solution. The two-state solution failed because the concept of creating two separate countries by dividing Israel/Palestine was and still is a difficult pill to swallow for Israelis and Palestinians. It is a fact that Israelis and Palestinians have religious, historical, and emotional attachments to every square inch of the land that includes Israel and Palestine and neither side is eager to embrace permanent separation or "amputation" as described by Israeli novelist Amos Oz. Practically speaking, it should be obvious to anyone who takes an honest look at the map of Israel/Palestine that there is not enough room in such a small area to support two separate countries that are contiguous, and viable.

Currently, the Palestinian Authority is requesting an independent state in the West Bank and Gaza. The West Bank and Gaza are approximately 23% of the lands that Palestinians claim as original Palestine. For most of their recent history, the Palestinians have wanted to return to all of Palestine which includes all of Israel. It was only in the 1980s that a significant number of Palestinians began asking for a state in the West Bank and Gaza. The split between Hamas and Fatah and between Fatah and other branches of the PLO is precisely over this point. Hamas and other branches of the PLO reject the notion of a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza.

Not surprisingly, the leaders of Israel have also rejected the creation of a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza. They argue that withdrawing from the West Bank and Gaza would leave Israel vulnerable while others argue that the West Bank and Gaza are integral parts of Israel and refer to the territories as Judea, Samaria, and Azza.

The fact is most Israelis and Palestinians share the belief that Israel/Palestine is indivisible. For many Palestinians, Palestine is not the West Bank and Gaza, it includes all of Israel. For many Israelis, Israel includes all of Palestine. And both claim Jerusalem. Thus, the two-state solution requires compromises that neither side can ever make.

Increasingly, more and more Israelis and Palestinians are turning to the idea of a shared country in the form of a One-State Solution or Equal Rights Solution. Their opinions are based on the belief that the way forward for Palestinians and Israelis is for a shared future based on equality rather than racial segregation.

UNIFICATION OF ISRAEL & PALESTINE.

I. Vision for a United Israel-Palestine The proposed solution envisions a single federal state called the "United States of Israel-Palestine" (USIP), comprising two semi-autonomous states, Israel and Palestine. This framework would allow both peoples to maintain their national identities while coexisting under a single democratic system that guarantees equal rights, protection, and representation.

II. Structure of Government

Federal Government

The federal government will oversee national security, foreign policy, economic regulation, and human rights protection.
A parliament will be established with equal representation from both Israeli and Palestinian states (50/50 representation), ensuring neither group dominates governance.
A President or Prime Minister may be elected by popular vote or by the parliament.

State Governments

Israel and Palestine will function as semi-autonomous states, managing local governance, education, healthcare, and religious affairs.
States may establish their own laws, provided they do not violate the federal constitution, which guarantees equal rights and non-discrimination.

Municipal and Local Governance

Local governments will manage community-level concerns. The boundaries of municipalities may drawn along demographic lines to ensure cultural and religious harmony.
All residents, regardless of ethnicity or religion, will have the right to live in any area without restrictions.

III. Rights and Freedoms

Equal Citizenship

All residents, whether Jewish, Muslim, Christian, or other, will be equal citizens under the law.
Citizens will have full voting rights at all levels of government.

Freedom of Movement

There will be no internal borders restricting movement between Israel and Palestine.
Jerusalem will serve as the shared capital, open to all citizens.

Religious and Cultural Rights

Religious freedom will be fully protected.
Holy sites should welcome access for all religious communities.

IV. Security and Law Enforcement

Unified Security Forces

A national military will be composed of equal numbers of Israelis and Palestinians, trained together to foster unity and trust.
Federal and state police forces will reflect the demographics of their jurisdictions to ensure fair enforcement of the law.

Judicial System

A dual judicial system will exist, allowing citizens to choose between religious or secular courts for personal matters.
Federal courts will have ultimate jurisdiction in matters of human rights, constitutional disputes, and national commerce.

V. Economic Integration

Unified Market

A single economy will be established, removing trade barriers and fostering cooperation in industries such as technology, agriculture, and tourism.
Investments from international partners will be encouraged to support infrastructure and development.

Right of Return and Migration

Both Jews and Palestinians will have the right to return and claim citizenship.

VI. Roadmap to Implementation

Transitional Government

A transitional federal government will be established to oversee the integration process, with equal representation from Israelis and Palestinians.
International peacekeeping forces may be temporarily deployed to ensure security during the transition.

Constitutional Drafting

A new constitution will be drafted by a joint Israeli-Palestinian committee, ensuring protections for all citizens.
Public referendums will be held to approve the constitution.

Reconciliation and Healing

A Truth and Reconciliation Commission will be created to address past grievances and promote national healing.
Educational reforms will focus on fostering mutual understanding and coexistence.

Conclusion This proposal presents a path toward lasting peace, based on the principles of equality, mutual respect, and shared governance. By uniting as one united nation, Israelis and Palestinians can secure a future of prosperity, security, and harmony for generations to come.

II. WHY MUST ISRAELIS & PALESTINIANS HAVE EQUAL RIGHTS?

A just and lasting peace for both Israelis and Palestinians hinges on the principle of equality where both communities enjoy equal rights, opportunities, and freedoms, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or history. The best way to achieve this peace is through a unitary state or federation, where Israel and Palestine are united into one country where all citizens, including Palestinians and Israelis, live as equals under the same laws.

Equality is not a new or foreign concept in the struggle for justice. Throughout history, marginalized groups have fought for basic human rights, and their successes show that equality is not just a moral ideal, but a practical solution to peace and stability. In the United States, African Americans fought for desegregation, civil rights, and equality before the law. As Martin Luther King Jr. famously said, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." The same logic applies to the situation in Israel and Palestine. When one group is treated as second-class citizens or is excluded from full participation in society, peace is impossible.

One compelling example of this is the division of Palestinians into four distinct categories under Israeli law. Those who hold Israeli citizenship, such as Palestinians in the Galilee region, enjoy the most rights, including the right to vote and run for office. They can live and work freely in Israel. These rights allow them to coexist with Jewish Israelis peacefully. However, Palestinians in Jerusalem, though residents, are not full citizens and face restrictions on movement, access to resources, and participation in political life. Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza face even worse conditions, with restricted mobility, fewer resources, and a constant state of segregation and violence. The West Bank is encircled by a wall, and Gaza is subject to an ongoing blockade. This fragmentation, and the unequal distribution of rights, creates a constant state of tension and conflict. As Nelson Mandela once said, "To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity." Palestinians in Gaza, who live under the least favorable conditions, suffer the most, and this has led to repeated cycles of violence.

On the other hand, the peaceful coexistence between Palestinian citizens of Israel and Jewish Israelis demonstrates the power of equality. When both groups are given equal rights, they can coexist peacefully, despite deep historical and cultural differences. It is crucial to note that in regions where inequality and segregation exist, such as Gaza, conflict and violence thrive. As Mahatma Gandhi put it, "An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind." The cycle of violence between Israel and Gaza will only continue as long as one group is denied equality.

Kamal Nawash has emphasized that peace cannot be achieved through mere coexistence under inequality but through a shared vision of equality and justice. In his writings, Nawash advocates for a "unitary state" solution, where Palestinians and Israelis live together as equal citizens. He suggests that such a state would foster stability, security, and prosperity for both peoples, ensuring that the mistakes of segregation and discrimination do not continue to divide the land.

Just as desegregation was essential to peace in the United States, so too is the end of racial and legal segregation in Israel and Palestine. When laws discriminate based on ethnicity or religion, peace becomes a distant hope. Equal rights for all citizens regardless of whether they are Jewish or Palestinian-Israel can create peace with Palestinians but also with itself. A unified, democratic state with equal rights for all citizens would prevent the violence, unrest, and constant state of war that currently exists in Gaza. It would also serve as a model for the world, showing that peace can only come when all people are granted equality before the law.

In conclusion, a unitary state or federation based on equality is the only viable path forward for Israelis and Palestinians. By embracing the principle of equal rights, as we have seen in the civil rights struggles of African Americans and the teachings of leaders like Mandela, Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr., peace and justice can be achieved. True peace comes not from a fragmented, divided system of different laws for different people, but from a shared commitment to equality and mutual respect. Equality is a solution.

III. HOW TO UNIFY ISRAEL-PALESTINE?

Palestinians must use nonviolence to end racial segregation and achieve unity and equality. Advocating for a one-state solution through non-violence is not only morally compelling but strategically smarter for Palestinians seeking equal rights and justice. A one-state solution, where both Palestinians and Israelis share equal rights in a unified country, is fundamentally a civil rights issue. Framing the struggle in terms of civil rights as opposed to violence or terrorism creates a stronger moral and political argument that resonates not only with Palestinians but also with international audiences, especially those in the West, including Americans.

Here's why non-violence, and focusing on civil rights, would be more effective than resorting to terrorism:

Moral High Ground: Non-violent resistance is a powerful tool for creating sympathy and solidarity. By framing the Palestinian struggle as a fight for civil rights, similar to the American Civil Rights Movement, Palestinians can tap into a well-established, globally recognized narrative. The movement in the U.S. was grounded in peaceful protests, legal challenges, and calls for equality under the law. By adopting this non-violent approach, Palestinians can highlight the moral urgency of their cause, emphasizing that they seek justice, not retribution. The global community tends to favor non-violence, especially in the context of long-standing conflicts, because it aligns with universal values of human dignity and peace.
Easier to Build International Support: The language of civil rights and equality before the law, ending racial segregation, and dismantling systems of apartheid has an undeniable appeal to a wide global audience. By framing the issue as one of racial discrimination, Palestinians can draw clear parallels with historical struggles against racial injustice, like the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. This would make it easier to attract support from sympathetic global movements, human rights organizations, and progressive political forces. People around the world, especially in the West, are more likely to rally behind a cause that calls for ending discrimination and upholding universal human rights, rather than one that is associated with violence or extremism.
Avoiding the Backlash of Terrorism: Terrorism, while it may garner short-term attention, ultimately undermines the legitimacy of the Palestinian cause in the eyes of much of the international community. Attacks that target civilians are broadly condemned, especially when they create a sense of fear or insecurity. Resorting to violence only reinforces negative stereotypes about Palestinians, potentially driving a wedge between them and potential allies. Non-violent methods, however, put pressure on Israel to respond in ways that highlight its own human rights abuses, fostering international condemnation of Israeli actions. Non-violence strengthens the moral clarity of the Palestinian cause.
Rhetoric That Resonates with Americans and the West: Americans and many Western countries are accustomed to thinking about struggles for justice in terms of civil rights movements. Using language familiar from these struggles-such as calls for "equal rights," "ending segregation," and "equality before the law"-can help shift perceptions of the conflict. If Palestinians can frame their demands for a one-state solution as a request for civil rights in the style of Martin Luther King Jr. or Nelson Mandela, they will be seen as advocating for justice and not simply opposing Israel. This could help dismantle the narrative of the Palestinian cause as one of violence or extremism, making it easier for Western audiences to empathize with their demands.
Creating a Platform for Dialogue and Negotiation: Non-violent resistance opens the door for constructive dialogue and negotiation. When violence dominates the discourse, it often leads to a cycle of retaliation that stymies meaningful peace talks. By focusing on civil rights, Palestinians can engage Israel and the international community more constructively, discussing practical, peaceful solutions to longstanding issues. A non-violent approach positions Palestinians as peaceful partners in the pursuit of justice, making it harder for Israeli leaders or international actors to justify continued oppression or neglect.
Building a Diverse Coalition: The civil rights narrative has broad, cross-national appeal and can unite diverse groups around a shared vision of justice. By framing the one-state solution as a matter of equality, Palestinians can build coalitions with other marginalized communities, both in the region and globally, who have fought against similar systems of oppression. These include minority rights groups, anti-apartheid activists, and people fighting against racial and economic inequality around the world. This broad coalition can increase pressure on Israel and the international community to take meaningful steps toward a peaceful resolution.

Ultimately, non-violence gives the Palestinian cause a stronger moral footing, a clearer message for international support, and a better chance of convincing the world that the struggle is for equality, not for vengeance. By adopting the language and methods of successful civil rights movements, Palestinians can build a narrative that speaks to universal values of justice and human dignity, making the cause of the one-state solution more compelling and easier to support globally.

IV. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & OTHER BENEFITS OF PEACE & EQUALITY.

Peace Prosperity Through a Unified Market.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, spanning over a century, remains one of the most intractable disputes in modern history. Rooted in deep historical, political, and cultural divides, the conflict persists despite numerous efforts for resolution. A critical yet often overlooked component of lasting peace is economic development. More specifically, the creation of a unified economic system where Israelis and Palestinians are equal citizens of a single state with one open market has the potential to transform the region.

While solutions have traditionally focused on political sovereignty, integrating both economies into a shared system is essential. Advocates like Kamal Nawash, a Palestinian-American advocate for peace and economic cooperation, argue that a "one-state solution," with both Palestinians and Israelis as equal citizens, is not only a just resolution but also a practical means to secure long-term peace and prosperity for both peoples. Nawash emphasizes that economic cooperation, rather than continued segregation, will build the necessary trust to bridge the deep political divide.

Economic Disparity and the Impact of Israeli Policies

Currently, the Palestinian economy is shackled by Israeli policies that restrict economic growth, limit mobility, and curtail development opportunities. Kamal Nawash has consistently pointed out that these policies, in the name of security, amount to an economic blockade, preventing Palestinians from achieving the independence they need to thrive. From roadblocks to restrictions on exports, Palestinian businesses face constant obstacles in accessing the global economy and even their own local markets.

Israeli-imposed separation policies have led to a system that is not only politically segregated but also economically fragmented. Palestinians are restricted from freely trading, accessing resources, or traveling beyond checkpoints and barriers. While Israel enjoys unfettered access to Palestinian markets, Palestinians face substantial barriers when attempting to export goods to Israel. This system of asymmetric economic access creates a deep inequality that perpetuates both economic hardship and political resentment.

Nawash has argued that Israel's policies of economic segregation are not simply a byproduct of security concerns but also a tool for maintaining dominance over Palestinian territories. By restricting access to vital resources such as land, water, and energy, Israel keeps the Palestinian economy weak, ensuring that Palestinians remain dependent on Israel and other external aid. This dynamic, in turn, stifles growth and fosters a cycle of poverty and frustration, preventing the development of Palestinian autonomy and prosperity.

The Case for a Unified Market

A unified market, where Israelis and Palestinians can engage as equal citizens, offers a powerful solution to this economic imbalance. Kamal Nawash advocates for a single state that allows for both economic and political integration, in which both Palestinians and Israelis are equal partners. This vision includes an open market where Palestinians and Israelis can freely trade, move, and work-unconstrained by the division of territories and artificial borders.

The concept of a unified state, which may seem daunting to many due to its political complexity, could ultimately be the most practical and sustainable option. Nawash contends that a shared economic space would not only improve living standards for Palestinians but also provide new opportunities for Israelis. In this system, Palestinians would no longer be held back by the severe restrictions placed on their economy. Rather, they would have access to Israeli technologies, markets, and resources, while Israelis would gain access to a dynamic Palestinian workforce and new economic opportunities.

The economic interdependence created by a unified market would also lay the groundwork for greater political cooperation. As Palestinians and Israelis work together economically, mutual interests and benefits would encourage dialogue and reconciliation. In this way, economic integration could be the catalyst for political integration, helping both peoples see the advantages of shared sovereignty and cooperation.

The Benefits for Israel

Many critics of the one-state solution argue that Israel's security and political future would be jeopardized by such integration. However, Nawash challenges this notion, asserting that it is in Israel's best interest for Palestinians to prosper. By removing barriers to Palestinian trade and labor, Israel would unlock untapped economic potential not just within Palestinian territories but across the region.

A thriving Palestinian economy would benefit Israel in several key ways. First, it would reduce the economic disparity that fuels much of the frustration and anger within Palestinian communities. When people have access to economic opportunities, they are less likely to resort to violence and extremism. Economic prosperity provides the stability necessary for peace, reducing the root causes of conflict.

Second, removing barriers to Palestinian economic growth would allow Israeli businesses to access a larger, more diverse market. As Palestinians gain access to Israeli markets and participate in shared industries, new opportunities for trade and collaboration will emerge. This mutual benefit would encourage cooperation and interdependence, making it more difficult for political tensions to boil over into violence.

Furthermore, a healthy Palestinian economy would help reduce Israel's reliance on foreign aid to the region. In the long run, a self-sufficient Palestinian economy would shift the focus from charity to mutual collaboration, benefiting both peoples. Kamal Nawash highlights how economic cooperation between Palestinians and Israelis can be the most pragmatic way to ensure both populations' prosperity and security.

The Need for Change

Kamal Nawash's vision calls for the removal of the policies that restrict Palestinian access to resources, markets, and mobility. For peace to be realized, Israel must take deliberate steps toward economic integration, beginning with the removal of trade restrictions, the opening of borders, and the dismantling of settlement policies that displace Palestinians from their land and resources.

The Israeli government has the power to transform the current situation by prioritizing policies that encourage economic cooperation rather than division. Allowing Palestinians to freely export goods, move freely within their territories, and access the same economic opportunities as Israelis would open the door to a brighter, more stable future for all. The removal of these economic barriers would not only benefit Palestinians but would enhance Israel's own economic and security interests.

Conclusion

A unified, open market, where Palestinians and Israelis are equal citizens, is a vital step toward achieving lasting peace. Economic development, as Kamal Nawash advocates, can bridge the divide between the two peoples by fostering interdependence and cooperation. A single market would provide the platform for Palestinians to contribute fully to the economy, while Israelis would benefit from access to new resources, labor, and trade opportunities.

It is essential that Israel recognize that the prosperity of the Palestinian people is not only a moral imperative but also an economic one. By removing the obstacles to Palestinian economic development, Israel can foster a more stable, prosperous, and peaceful region. Economic cooperation, rather than division, can provide the foundation for creating a future where both Palestinians and Israelis live as equals, sharing in the wealth of a united, open market.

IV. Why a United Country with Equal Rights for Palestinians and Israelis?

The Only System that has resulted in peace and coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians is the Equal Rights Solution. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has raged for over a century, remains one of the most contentious and heartbreaking struggles in the world today. Many have attempted to find solutions, but one thing is clear: the only way forward for lasting peace is a solution based on equality whereby Palestinians and Israelis share a united country as equal citizens. The "Equal Rights Solution" is not only the most viable path to peace but also the only proven approach that has worked in other struggles for justice and equality.

The Legacy of Inequality

When Israel declared itself a state in 1948, it did so at the expense of the Palestinian people. Hundreds of Palestinian villages were destroyed, and hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were forced to leave their homes and land. This event created a refugee crisis that still reverberates today. Many Palestinians who fled in 1948 did not forget their homes-nor did their children or grandchildren. Yet, Israel, hoping time would make them forget, refused to allow Palestinian refugees to return, denying them basic rights, including the right to return to their ancestral homes.

As decades passed, Palestinian resistance did not fade away. Instead, it has evolved into a persistent fight for justice. And with each new generation, the demand for equal rights and the recognition of Palestinians as full citizens has only grown stronger.

Four Categories of Palestinians: A Divided Society

Today, the Israeli government maintains a deeply segregated society, dividing Palestinians into four categories, each with a different level of rights and freedoms.

Palestinians with Israeli Citizenship: These Palestinians have the most rights, including freedom of movement, access to employment, and the ability to vote. However, they still face systemic discrimination in many aspects of life, including education, housing, and employment.
Palestinians in Jerusalem: While they are legal residents of Israel, they are not citizens and have fewer rights than Palestinian citizens of Israel. Their residency status can be revoked, leaving them vulnerable.
Palestinians in the West Bank: These individuals are neither citizens nor residents of Israel. They live under military occupation with limited freedom of movement and are subject to Israeli military laws rather than civil law.
Palestinians in Gaza: Living under a blockade, Palestinians in Gaza experience the most extreme conditions. They are not citizens or residents of Israel and have virtually no freedom of movement or employment opportunities. Gaza has often been described as an "open-air prison."

Interestingly, the Palestinians with the most rights-those with Israeli citizenship are also the least likely to engage in violence against Israelis. Meanwhile, the situation in Gaza, where Palestinians have the fewest rights, has become the most violent. This stark difference demonstrates that inequality and repression breed resentment and conflict. The more rights and freedoms Palestinians are granted, the more peaceful and cooperative they tend to be.

The Solution: Equal Rights

The core issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict isnot about religion or ethnicity but about basic human rights. The divide between Jews and Palestinians is fundamentally a divide between equal and unequal treatment. While various solutions have been proposed over the years, including the much-discussed two-state solution, none have addressed the root cause of the conflict: inequality.

The Equal Rights Solution-which is also called the "One State Solution"-is the only viable path to peace. In this model, Jews and Palestinians would live as equal citizens within the same state. Whether through a unitary state with one person, one vote, or through a federation where both peoples share power equally, the key is equality.

This approach addresses the reality that Palestinians will never accept second-class citizenship. They will never accept being treated as lesser people or being denied the same rights that Jews enjoy. As we've seen in history, when any group is marginalized or oppressed, resistance is inevitable. It is not a question of if, but when, the marginalized group will rise.

A Parallels to the Civil Rights Struggle in the U.S. and South Africa

The struggle for Palestinian equality is strikingly similar to the struggles for civil rights and justice faced by African Americans in the United States and black South Africans under apartheid. Both the African American civil rights movement and the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa were, at their core, about demanding equal rights and an end to institutionalized racism. In both cases, the oppressed group fought for the right to live as equals in the societies they had been excluded from.

In the case of South Africa, it was only when the apartheid system was dismantled and black South Africans were granted equal rights that peace began to emerge. Similarly, in the United States, the civil rights movement did not end with token gestures or partial equality; it succeeded only when African Americans were granted full citizenship and the rights that should have been theirs all along. In both cases, the demands for equality and justice could not be ignored forever, and peace only came when true equality was achieved.

Human Rights Watch and B'Tselem: Apartheid State

Recent reports from leading human rights organizations, such as Human Rights Watch and B'Tselem, have drawn a stark comparison between Israel's treatment of Palestinians and South Africa's apartheid regime. These organizations have described Israel as an apartheid state, citing practices like the systematic eviction of Palestinians from their homes, the lack of equal access to resources, and the denial of basic civil rights to Palestinians.

The inequality faced by Palestinians is not just a legal issue-it is a moral one. If Israel continues to deny Palestinians equal rights, it will not achieve peace. The situation will only worsen, as it did in South Africa and the United States. The forced separation and discrimination will eventually fuel more anger, more resistance, and more violence.

Moving Toward Peace

Israel faces a critical choice: it can continue with the status quo, clinging to a system of segregation and inequality, or it can embrace a new future based on equal rights for all its citizens. The struggle for equality is not just a Palestinian cause-it is a universal human cause. Israel must acknowledge that no group of people, whether Palestinian or Jewish, will ever accept living under a system of apartheid. Inequality does not work, and it will never work.

It is time for Israel to realize that peace can only be achieved when Palestinians are granted the same rights, protections, and opportunities as Jews. The world has seen how the struggle for equality has succeeded in other places. There is no reason to believe that the path to peace in Israel-Palestine will be any different. Only through equality can Israel and Palestine hope for a future of peace, justice, and shared prosperity.

For Israel-Palestine, Equal Rights = Peace.

By Kamal Nawash, who is a Palestinian American Lawyer.