Negotiator and political analyst Daniel Levy examines the political frameworks, diplomatic initiatives and international mechanisms that have shaped recent developments in Gaza and the wider Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Arguing that humanitarian realities cannot be separated from political decisions, Levy explores how international diplomacy, ceasefire arrangements and institutional responses have influenced conditions on the ground and the prospects for Palestinian self-determination.

The session explores:

The relationship between humanitarian conditions in Gaza and international political decision-making.
The development and implications of the post-war ceasefire framework and related diplomatic initiatives.
The role of the United Nations Security Council and international institutions in shaping the current political landscape.
The creation and function of the proposed "Board of Peace" governance structure.
Questions of accountability, international law and the implementation of International Court of Justice rulings.
International aid mechanisms, reconstruction efforts and donor frameworks relating to Gaza.
Debates surrounding Palestinian governance, representation and future political structures.
The future of UNRWA and broader efforts to reshape the international approach to Palestinian refugees.
Proposals concerning international stabilisation forces, occupation and security arrangements.
The geopolitical interests and international actors influencing developments in Palestine and the wider region.

Levy argues that many of the political and diplomatic structures currently under discussion cannot be understood as neutral administrative arrangements, but instead reflect broader debates about sovereignty, accountability, self-determination and the future political status of Palestine.

He examines the tensions between international legal frameworks and diplomatic initiatives, questioning whether current proposals adequately address Palestinian rights and political aspirations.

The presentation concludes by considering the resilience of Palestinian society, the limitations of existing diplomatic approaches and the challenges facing those seeking a just and sustainable political settlement.

Recorded at the Britain Palestine Project annual conference, Recognition is the Beginning, held at the Greenwood Theatre, London, on 2 June 2026.

Daniel Levy is President of the US/Middle East Project (USMEP) and a former Israeli peace negotiator. He served as an adviser in the Israeli Prime Minister's Office and participated in peace negotiations with the Palestinians during the Oslo process and subsequent diplomatic initiatives. A frequent commentator and analyst on Middle East affairs, he is widely recognised for his work on diplomacy, conflict resolution, international law and Israeli-Palestinian relations, and regularly contributes to international media and policy discussions.