THE ROLE OF DIPLOMACY IN THE ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN CONFLICT

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been the most protracted and complex disputes in human existence. Previous studies have focused on state and non-state factors; there is still a gap in the aspect of diplomacy. The study examined the role of diplomacy in managing the Israel-Palestinian conflict, with a view to investigating formal negotiations, informal dialogue and grassroots initiatives, identifying the root causes of the conflict, assessing past and present diplomatic efforts and exploring the challenges of achieving peace. Qualitative approach was used. Data were elicited from secondary sources, namely, scholarly articles, journals and official reports. Key informant interviews were also conducted using purposive and snowballing sampling to capture experts in regional and global conflict. Constructivism by Nicolas Onuf served as the framework to evaluate how identities, narratives and perceptions shape diplomatic outcomes. While diplomacy has recorded some progress, its limitation in achieving lasting peace has remained evident. Diplomacy has played a dual role in the conflict, both as a tool for fostering temporary peace and as a platform for failed negotiations as key diplomatic efforts, the Oslo Accords, Camp David Summit and the United States-led initiatives providing short term breakthrough have lacked implementation and coordination with grassroots efforts and civil society engagement, which has proved more impactful in building trust and reshaping public perceptions. Major setbacks to peace were attributed to asymmetrical power dynamics, political polarization and a lack of mutual trust between the parties. Media portrayal and international bias were also cited as complicating factors. Findings underscored the importance of inclusive, sustained and multi-level diplomatic engagements, the need for combining state level negotiations with bottom-up peace building efforts and the urgency of renewed commitment, impartial mediation and strengthened international frameworks to ensue lasting peace. Diplomacy still holds the potential to pave the way for lasting peace between Israel and Palestine.