Towards a deferred recognition of the Palestinian state: Yes, but only after a structured and secure transition

As international pressure mounts for the immediate recognition of a Palestinian state, it is crucial to emphasize that such a decision—while legitimate in the long term—must not be made hastily. Immediate recognition, in the current context of war, division, and instability, risks producing the opposite of its intended effect: a lasting peace for both peoples.

The principle of recognition itself is not in question. It is a legitimate political objective. But for this recognition to be meaningful, credible, and a source of stability, it must rest on a solid institutional, security, and political foundation. That requires an intermediate transition period, supervised and supported by the international community, the Arab world, and the key stakeholders in the conflict.

No lasting solution can emerge if Israelis continue to live in fear of future massacres like that of October 7, or if Palestinians remain under bombardment and in political despair.

Here are the seven pillars of a deferred but structured recognition process:

1. A temporary international protectorate to guarantee stability

Before any recognition takes place, an international protectorate under the mandate of the Arab League, with the participation of neutral countries, should be established in Palestinian territories. This transitional authority would:

• Oversee security,

• Ensure institutional neutrality,

• Prevent the return of armed militias,

• Reassure Israelis that no attacks will originate from Gaza or the West Bank.

This protectorate would allow Palestinians to build a state free from civil war or Islamist domination and help Israelis regain trust in the idea of a peaceful Palestinian neighbor.

2. Creation of a demilitarized “Dead Zone” between Gaza and Israel

A demilitarized buffer zone, monitored by international forces, should be established between Gaza and Israel. This zone would act as a physical barrier against:

• Rocket fire,

• Terrorist infiltration,

• Underground tunnels.

This protective mechanism is essential to allow Israeli families in the south to live in safety and to prevent further military escalation.

3. Arab-Funded reconstruction: A clear regional commitment

The Arab League—and particularly its most stable and wealthy members (Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, etc.)—must contribute to:

• Rebuilding Gaza and West Bank infrastructure,

• Developing schools, hospitals, and sanitation systems,

• Funding social programs that steer the population away from radicalization.

This reconstruction must come with full transparency guarantees and the complete exclusion of extremist groups from financial circuits.

4. Creation of an independent palestinian investment bank

A Palestinian investment bank—jointly overseen by international actors, Palestinian experts, and Arab partners—should be created to fund:

• The real economy,

• Start-ups,

• Public services,

• Infrastructure.

This initiative would be the cornerstone of a transparent economic revival, giving hope to young Palestinians and reducing their susceptibility to indoctrination.

5. Launch of a “Marshall Plan” for Palestine

This plan would involve:

• A large-scale vocational training program,

• Investment in healthcare and education,

• Youth employment policies,

• Israeli-Palestinian partnerships in renewable energy, agriculture, and digital technology.

The goal is to create peaceful economic interdependence, like post-World War II Europe.

6. Restructuring the Palestinian political landscape and ending Hamas

Hamas must be dismantled, disarmed, and removed from the political scene. A new, pluralistic, democratic, and secular governance must emerge, including:

• Civil political parties,

• A freely elected parliament,

• An executive representing all components of the Palestinian people.

This is a non-negotiable condition for Israelis to even consider a future of coexistence.

7. Reconciliation between Gaza and the West Bank

There can be no credible Palestinian state without political unity between Gaza and the West Bank. A reconciliation agreement must be reached to ensure both territories speak with one voice, within a democratic framework, and with the support of moderate Arab states.

Conclusion: Recognition—Yes, But on Solid Grounds

This transitional period, both realistic and internationally supervised, should last four to five years. If, by the end of this phase, institutions are solidified, the security of both peoples is ensured, and cooperation is underway, then full recognition of the Palestinian state can be granted—without posing a threat to Israel and with a real future for Palestinians.

Peace is not a slogan. It’s a slow construction—but it is possible.As long as we don’t skip steps.

No durable solution can arise if Israelis live in constant fear of new massacres like that of October 7, or if Palestinians remain under blockade, bombing, and political despair.