Can the Hamas-Israel war spread to the region?

Baku/10.10.23/Turan:  As the world watches with bated breath, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has extended an olive branch, proposing a potential solution to the escalating conflict between Hamas and Israel. Erdogan envisions an end to the strife through the establishment of two independent states—Israel and Palestine.

In a diplomatic overture, Erdogan emphasized that lasting peace in the Middle East hinges on a definitive resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian crisis. He asserted that the creation of the State of Palestine, with Jerusalem as its capital, is an urgent imperative that cannot be postponed. Erdogan's proposal underscores the necessity of resolving the Palestinian question in accordance with international law.

Furthermore, Erdogan revealed that Turkey is actively engaged in efforts to halt the conflict's escalation and prevent its spread throughout the region. As an influential regional player, Turkey's commitment to diplomacy carries significant weight in the quest for peace.

Yet, the question looms large: Could the West exploit the Palestinian factor to strike at Iran? Could this conflict indeed escalate beyond its current boundaries? Zardusht Alizadeh, a prominent political commentator, delves into these pressing questions on the "Difficult Question" program.

Alizadeh acknowledges the profound disparity in the capabilities of the conflicting parties, estimating a staggering ratio of 1 to 100. Israel boasts a developed industry, a formidable military, substantial financial resources, and extensive global connections, setting it apart from the Palestinians, who lack these assets.

Alizadeh observes that high-ranking officials in various states align with Israel, citing strategic partnerships, weapons supplies, and international support from the Jewish lobby as contributing factors. However, he underscores that Hamas also garners support, particularly from human rights activists and believers. They draw parallels between their own experiences with Armenian occupation and the plight of the Palestinians, emphasizing the illegality of land seizures and dispossession, thus forming two distinct camps within society.

The commentator raises concerns about Israel's alleged preparations for an incursion into the Gaza Strip, accompanied by reports of over 100 individuals taken hostage by Hamas. In a chilling development, Hamas has declared its intent to execute one hostage for each "strike without warning" or house demolished by Israel in Gaza. Alizadeh highlights the tragic reality where both sides label each other as terrorists, with each presenting examples of mutual acts of violence.

However, he underscores that Iran, Turkey, and Azerbaijan share no vested interest in the continuation or expansion of this conflict. These nations, mindful of the complexities and potential consequences, are more inclined toward peace and stability in the region.

As the world watches the unfolding drama in the Middle East, Erdogan's proposal stands as a glimmer of hope, while regional actors navigate the treacherous waters of geopolitics and seek to avoid further escalation. The path to peace remains uncertain, but diplomatic initiatives like Erdogan's offer a ray of optimism in the face of mounting tensions.