In our opinion, it is a pertinent and important question.
The repeated condemnations without meaningful action by most Muslim-majority
states in response to Israeli aggression—especially in Gaza—stem from a complex
mix of geopolitical, economic, and internal factors. Some of the main reasons
are:
Dependence
on the West
Many Muslim countries, particularly in the Middle East, rely
heavily on the United States and Europe for security, trade, investment, and
military technology. They fear, taking decisive action against Israel risks sanctions,
aid cuts, or political isolation.
Deep Split
The Muslim world is deeply fragmented—Sunni vs Shia, Arab vs
non-Arab, monarchies vs republics. This has resulted in rivalries (Saudi Arabia
vs Iran, Turkey vs Gulf monarchies) those prevent a unified front.
Normalization
and Hidden Ties with Israel
Several Arab states (UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan) have
normalized relations through the Abraham Accords, and many others maintain covert
cooperation.
Economic
Vulnerabilities
Oil-rich states depend on stable exports, foreign
investment, and dollar-based trade. Poorer Muslim countries (Pakistan,
Bangladesh, Egypt, etc.) face IMF pressure and debt traps, limiting foreign
policy freedom.
Fear of
Internal Unrest
Leaders worry that pushing too hard against Israel, in other
words the United States could invite political or regime change attempts. Authoritarian
governments fear that pro-Palestine activism could spill over into broader
dissent.
Lack of
Unanimity
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has been
reduced to a symbolic forum, issuing statements but lacking enforcement
mechanisms or collective security structures.
Strategic
Silence
Some leaders prefer Israel as a silent partner in
intelligence, cyber, and defense, especially against Iran, Hezbollah, or
Islamist movements that threaten their regimes.
Therefore, Muslim countries remain stuck between public
outrage and private interests. Condemnation is the safest path—it appeases
their populations without risking ties with Washington or destabilizing their
regimes.
Enough is enough, now the time has come to take concrete
steps. Here are some realistic and concrete steps Muslim countries could
take—short of direct war—if they truly wanted to go beyond mere condemnation of
Israeli aggression:
Economic
Measures
Oil & Gas Leverage:
Gulf states could coordinate an oil embargo or selective
supply restrictions targeting Israel’s allies, similar to the 1973 Arab oil
embargo.
Boycott and Divestment:
Governments could ban trade with Israeli firms and pressure
companies operating in Israel to disengage.
Sanctions on Israeli Goods: Restrict imports of Israeli
agricultural, tech, or defense products.
Diplomatic
Pressure
Expel Ambassadors:
Muslim countries with relations (UAE, Bahrain, Morocco,
Turkey, Egypt, Jordan) could downgrade or cut diplomatic ties.
Global Legal Action:
Refer Israel to the International Criminal Court (ICC)
collectively, instead of leaving it to NGOs.
Block Normalization:
States like Saudi Arabia could halt normalization talks,
signaling that Palestine remains a red line.
Political
Unity
Revitalize the OIC:
Transform it from a talk shop into an action body: joint
resolutions, emergency summits with binding decisions.
Joint Palestine Fund:
Pool resources into a sovereign fund for Gaza reconstruction
and Palestinian self-sufficiency.
Collective Lobbying at UN:
Use numbers (57 Muslim countries) to push binding UN
resolutions, even if the U.S. vetoes in the Security Council.
Strategic
Non-Military Support
Humanitarian Corridors:
Use leverage with Egypt and Jordan to ensure permanent aid
corridors into Gaza.
Technology and Cyber Support:
Provide Palestinians with communication tools,
cybersecurity, and medical technology to resist siege conditions.
Intelligence Sharing:
Quietly pass on information that can protect Palestinian
civilians from strikes.
Symbolic
but High-Impact Moves
Suspend Flights to Tel Aviv:
Muslim-majority airlines could suspend services, disrupting
Israel’s connectivity.
Cultural and Sports Boycotts:
Ban Israeli teams from participating in sporting events in
Muslim countries.
Public Accountability:
Name and shame Muslim leaders who maintain cozy ties with
Israel while condemning it publicly.