“A year of dialogue is better than a day of war” is not merely a notion; it is a strategic truth demonstrated by the experiences of nations and wars throughout history.
Dialogue, no matter how difficult or complex, is always less costly than military confrontation. A war may begin with a decision, but it does not end easily. It leaves behind lives lost, people wounded, homes destroyed, and generations carrying pain, bitterness, and fear.
Dialogue, on the other hand, gives opponents an opportunity to listen to one another, understand each other’s fears, and search for common ground instead of focusing on differences. It may not produce immediate results, but it opens the door to solutions that can give people a chance to live rather than continue to die.
History has shown that military power can impose a temporary reality, but it cannot, by itself, create lasting peace. True peace requires a different kind of courage: the courage to sit at the same table, the courage to recognize the other’s suffering, and the courage to make compromises for the sake of a better future.
From the heart of suffering, I say: We should not wait until yet another year of war commences to discover that one hour of dialogue was more valuable than the thousands of lives lost.
Dialogue could prevent further war
Let us give dialogue a chance, even if it takes a full year. A year spent searching for peace will not be wasted; it may be the most important year in the history of our peoples.
A year of dialogue could save generations from war and open the way for Palestinians and Israelis to live side by side in security, dignity, and peace.
The writer has worked for 44 years at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), where he has held several leadership positions, including head of the education program, head of the central area in the Gaza Strip, and adviser to the director of UNRWA operations on community affairs.