The current conflict in Lebanon offers Arabs a historic opportunity, on a plate of gold, to redefine their relationship with Israel. They can now redraw the region’s map in a way that reflects the true status of Israel. One must take into consideration the point the battleground has proved — Israel is no more than a paper tiger and can bite only with the teeth provided by America.
If Arabs do not grab this opportunity they are going to regret it for the rest of their lives. I have no doubt that regret would then be of no use or value.
Situation on the ground has proved beyond any doubt that the monster Arabs make of Israel is only an imaginary creature. The confrontation in Lebanon has now entered its second month but Israel has been able to achieve nothing against Hezbollah fighters despite the entire range of modern arsenal at its disposal as well as American support.
The Israeli Army has in fact confined itself to destroying the infrastructure and killing innocent civilians. On the other hand, Hezbollah fighters have taught Israel a lesson it will never be able to forget. Showing remarkable determination, they have also achieved numerous strategic victories. Israel’s reputation as a massive military force now lies in tatters after a month-long conflict in Lebanon. Not only that, the whole world has now seen, and resented, the horrible and mean mentality and the moral depravity of Israeli forces.
Qana massacre was too much for the world to swallow. Literally the whole world came forward to condemn it. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez withdrew his country’s ambassador from Israel in protest against its brutal aggression in Lebanon. This was a humanitarian stand that called for a lot of courage and boldness.
Ironically, Arab countries that have relations with Israel failed to take a similar step despite the bond of religion, language and common destiny linking them with the people of Lebanon. The prevailing situation now compels these countries to sever their ties with Israel and close all economic channels with it.
The excuse of peace agreements with Israel is now completely unjustifiable. We all know that Israel revoked all agreements it had signed with Arabs and ignored all international resolutions. No doubt, the Arab countries’ act of severing relations with Israel will deliver a big blow to the aggressive neocolonialist entity.
The American administration represents the No. 1 permanent supporter of Israel, a spoiled child whose demands are considered orders and thus met straightaway. At the same time, Arabs too have good relations with the American administration and it is possible for them to use diplomatic channels to press their point.
Arabs can also put pressure on the American administration if they play their cards well and at the right time. These are matters related to the American interests and if Arabs deal from a position of equality and strength, the American position will change. We should not forget a British principle governing international relations — there is no permanent friend or foe, only permanent interests.
The situation requires Arabs to show the confidence as well as the will to work for the common Arab interests.
Moreover, war in Lebanon has also highlighted the existing mass Arab support for the people of Lebanon. Ordinary Arabs from all over the world have shown a readiness to offer every possible help in defense of their brothers in Lebanon.
Protests were held in all Arab cities and donations made from different corners of the Arab world. Some have even wished to travel to Lebanon so that they can help confront the Israeli aggression.
Such popular rage and bold stand should confirm to the Arab leaders that if they decide to confront Israel, their people would stand by their side till victory is achieved.
There is no doubt that circumstances are right for Arabs to deliver a telling blow to Israel, using various means, that would cut the monster to its actual size. It is time to get rid of the cancer biting the body of the Arab nation.
The opportunity has made itself available and Arabs do have the necessary means and ability to make full use of it.
The reality has come out of the maze of mystery and the whole world has now seen the horrible face of Israel. Arabs must know this: They have either got to make their moves to destroy Israel or continue watching Israel destroy them.
