Amid rapid transformations in the Middle East’s political and security landscape, and the evolving dynamics of power, it is worth asking to what extent Palestinians are prepared to confront these regional shifts – by both interpreting the broader picture and preparing for what lies ahead, with an aim to centre their cause after two years of genocide.
Palestinians need to reflect on the region through their own eyes, engaging in a forward-looking process to shape the future, rather than merely living under its consequences.
Today, more than ever, Palestinians must read and analyse the region through a purely Palestinian lens – not through the perspectives of others. Amid evolving regional dynamics, they must take seriously their own political agency.
The reconstruction of Gaza, and the governance mechanisms that will be put in place going forward, will be the real test – not only for Palestine’s future, but for the future of the entire region. All of this demands and requires a legitimate, representative and effective Palestinian leadership with regional weight and a visionary outlook.
After two years of genocide, the vision cannot remain the same as that of the past 30 years, nor can the leadership. That is why a serious, genuine, inclusive and independent national dialogue – free from any regional tutelage – has become more urgent than ever.
Only through such a genuine national dialogue can Palestinians effectively prepare for a rapidly changing regional landscape. The time to act is now.
Published at The Middle East Eye, 30 October 2025
Alaa Tartir, Program Director of Al-Shabaka, Engaged Scholar, Global Citizen 