The Beijing Declaration: A new chapter in Palestinian unity

Editor's note: Bobby Naderi is a London-based journalist, guest contributor in print, radio and television, and documentary filmmaker. The article reflects the author's opinions, and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

Palestinian factions have agreed to end their divisions and strengthen unity by signing the Beijing Declaration. The historic declaration was signed during the closing ceremony of a reconciliation summit in Beijing on July 23.

The declaration represents a critical turning point. With this statement, Beijing has reaffirmed its commitment to bringing an end to the 17-year political division between Hamas, which runs the Gaza Strip, and Fatah, which controls the Palestinian Authority and administers pockets of the West Bank. Fourteen Palestinian factions attended the summit, with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi present.

Diplomatic milestone

The Beijing Declaration seeks to put an end to the protracted political divisions that have afflicted the Palestinian government ever since Hamas won an election in 2006 and gained control of the Gaza Strip. The divisions hampered any unified Palestinian response to numerous political, social and economic issues. All Palestinian groups are now committing to a cooperative approach to administration which is a crucial first step toward establishing a unity government in the Palestinian territories.

It's not hard to take in — not just based on security considerations but ideological ones. A unity government could result in a more structured and effective strategy for addressing both internal and external issues. In the absence of unity, Palestinian factions cannot meet the growing socioeconomic needs of their people, much less present a united front in peace talks with Israel.

In reality, China has been able to strike a balance in its relations with all parties involved in the Palestinian struggle. China's methodical approach has been essential to advancing a more comprehensive peace process, as it still has economic relations with Israel. This kind of diplomatic adaptability and dedication are the reasons why China has been able to effectively work with both Palestinian and Israeli leaders.

Potential impact

A united Palestinian front might result in a more stable government within the Palestinian territories, lowering internal tensions and creating a constructive environment that is better suited for socioeconomic development and post-war reconstruction plans in Gaza. History tells us that internal disputes only result in violence and economic stagnation in a devastating fashion.

It is only through a single, cohesive representation in talks with Israel and other international parties that the Palestinians could achieve better results in conflict resolution. In the absence of a Palestinian unity government, there can be no consistent and logical policy positions to improve the effectiveness of diplomatic engagements.

The Beijing-brokered deal serves as a successful example for other influential peace partners to follow. It can and should inspire other brokers to become more involved in supporting the establishment of a provisional national reconciliation government. Just like the Chinese government, they should also back the Palestinian cause by providing emergency humanitarian aid. In the words of Chinese President Xi Jinping, the "tremendous sufferings" in Gaza "should not continue indefinitely" and "justice should not be absent forever."

Geopolitical setbacks

The truth is usually hard and uncomfortable. A major obstacle to the unity declaration may be the absence of tangible enforcement measures to guarantee adherence by the participating parties. There is a chance that some Palestinian factions might not follow through on their commitments if there aren't any explicit accountability procedures or incentives in place.

It feels bitter indeed to say that the international community has in the past made unsuccessful attempts at reconciliation between Hamas and Fatah. The historical background of these geopolitical setbacks may raise questions about the Beijing Declaration's long-term viability too. Due to bitter rivalry over power, a future unity government may encounter opposition from extremist groups with strong influence. This internal resistance could easily spark new conflicts from Gaza to the West Bank and to the Israeli-Lebanese borderlands.

And there is a deeper issue. Some regional and international players with conflicting interests and goals may exercise power to undermine China's efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire. The argument is that just like the Chinese government, the international community is also expected to invest heavily in political will to help implement the unity declaration. Unlike the past, such coordination shouldn't be absent from the new deal.

To make some sense of it, a good deal has happened and an Israeli-Palestinian settlement along its lines may also be within reach. The Beijing Declaration serves as a positive example of China's growing diplomatic influence and capacity to help conjure up a years-long settlement outside of its own borders. It is a demonstration of China's dedication to Middle Eastern peace and stability, enhancing its political status as an assertive and responsible global force.

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