Neutrality as a Discursive Strategy: Divergent Arab Policies During the Gaza WarAya Rashwan2026 / 7 / 27Neutrality as a Discursive Strategy: Divergent Arab Policies During the Gaza WarBy: Aya RashwanResearcher in International Relations and Middle East AffairsSince the outbreak of the war on Gaza in October 2023, an apparent paradox has emerged within the Arab political landscape: a sharp divergence in policies coupled with a convergence in rhetoric. Yet, this position has raised questions regarding its consistency with legal neutrality, given that Qatar has been, in practice, deeply involved in managing the conflict. • Engage more actively with international legal mechanisms: Rather than hesitation, Arab states could join international litigation related to genocide´-or-provide legal memoranda, taking a proactive role in shaping the international legal environment. A regional framework should be based on adherence to international humanitarian law and human rights, rather than passive "neutrality." As international legal obligations continue to evolve, Arab governments may find that the practice of invoking "neutrality" is increasingly incompatible with international legal expectations.