The Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat) hosted a panel discussion titled, “Gaza and Future Scenarios” at its headquarters in Al-Awali on Monday, 6 November 2023. Dr. Randa Slim, Senior Fellow and the Director of the Track II Dialogues and Conflict Resolution Program at the Middle East Institute in the United States participated virtually in the discussion.
The panel discussion was attended by a number of officials, academics, and specialists, in the presence of Dr. Hamad Ebrahim Al-Abdulla, Executive Director of the Center, and a group of Derasat’s employees and researchers.
The panel discussion addressed a series of significant issues, including the concerning situation in the Gaza Strip and its humanitarian implications amidst the ongoing escalation. It also delved into the looming security risks and repercussions on the Middle East region, in addition to the challenges facing the attainment of regional peace.
The participants emphasized the importance of ceasing any escalations and safeguarding civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law. They also stressed the urgent need to establish adequate humanitarian corridors to deliver relief and medical aid to Gaza, considering the dire humanitarian situation in the Strip. The efforts of the Kingdom of Bahrain in providing aid and humanitarian assistance to Gaza were commended, while the participants emphasized the necessity of intensifying diplomatic efforts at regional and international levels. The objective is to halt military operations and establish a political framework towards achieving a permanent, just, and comprehensive peace in accordance with international legitimacy resolutions.
Furthermore, the event offered a platform for analyzing diplomatic and international efforts aimed at resolving the conflict. The participants highlighted the challenges faced and shared lessons learned, which have contributed to a deeper understanding of the intricate regional political dynamics.