1st Edition
Islamic Perspectives on International Conflict Resolution Theological Debates and the Israel-Palestinian Peace Process
Upturning the traditional view of religion as a source of conflict, this book studies Islamic perspectives of international conflict resolution, re-interpreting the possibility of Israel-Palestine reconciliation beyond traditional secular frameworks.
Beginning with an analysis of both classical and modern Islamic texts, the book provides a theoretical overview of Islamic conflict resolution before exploring the Israel-Palestine conflict in its historical, social and political dimensions. This framework allows for a real-world examination of Islamic conflict resolution in the context of Israel-Palestine theological debates. The author also critically assesses differing ideological and political views among Islamic scholars, divided by those supporting and those opposing a peace treaty between Israel and Palestine. Ultimately, it is argued that neglecting religion misses the opportunity to inject the spiritual dimension needed for reconciling the Israelis and Palestinians.
The book’s multi-disciplinary approach will be of interest to a range of academics and policymakers, including those involved in International Relations and Islamic Studies. However, its accessible prose and engaging content will also appeal to undergraduates and general readers interested in Middle Eastern politics.
Biography
Shameer Modongal is currently Assistant Professor in West Asian Studies at the University of Kerala. He completed his doctoral studies in International Relations at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi.
'This book provides a thorough analytical framework to better understand the religious roots of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the theological challenges associated with promoting peace and reconciliation in such context. It also offers an important way forward in constructively engaging Israeli-Palestinian religious actors in peacebuilding processes. Policy makers and peacebuilders should read this book before continuing with their failed secular peacemaking designs.'
Mohammed Abu-Nimer, American University, Washington DC., USA
'Modongal’s book is an excellent summary of the field of conflict resolution in Islam with a special focus on the Palestine-Israel conflict. Of special importance is the discussion of the cultural, religious and religious leaders' roles in peacemaking in the Middle East, as well as the analysis of how scholars interpret the Islamic principles of conflict resolution in the context of reconciliation with Israel. The book is valuable to whoever is interested in the Middle East and Islam.'
Yitzhak Reiter, President of The Middle East & Islamic Studies Association of Israel (MEISAI), Israel
'Shameer Modongal brings a fresh and welcome perspective to the role of Islamic values in conflict resolution. The literature is saturated with work on Islam, politics and Muslim extremism on the one hand, and securitization of Islam on the other, but there is much to be done to explore the positive role that Islamic values and Islamic ethical principles play in governance and statecraft. Islamic Perspectives on International Conflict Resolution not only introduces the reader to the theological debates but also shows how Islamic values are deployed in real world diplomacy in the case of the Arab-Israeli conflict.'
Muqtedar Khan, University of Delaware, USA
'Shameer’s book provides insights on the theological debates of the Arab-Israeli peace process. The author’s analysis, moving past the Western perspective of conflict resolution, focuses on the Islamic perspective, emphasising the significant value of justice, forgiveness, solidarity, protection of life and dignity, plurality, patience, and mercy reflected through mediation and arbitration. The book is useful for researchers, academics, and students of Islamic Studies, International Relations, and Middle Eastern Studies, including practitioners in foreign policy and global affairs.'
Nassef Manabilang Adiong, Bangsamoro Parliament’s Policy Research and Legal Services, The Philippines
