Issam Sartawi, Palestinian activist (b. 1935)

Issam Sartawi (Arabic: عصام السرطاوي‎), born in 1935, was a deeply influential figure within the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), recognized for his unique vision and often controversial advocacy for peace. A Palestinian physician by profession, Sartawi emerged as a prominent voice within the PLO, particularly known for his early and unwavering commitment to dialogue with moderate Israelis. His life, marked by dedication to the Palestinian cause, was tragically cut short when he was assassinated on April 10, 1983, a date that underscored the perilous nature of his peace-making efforts.

A Visionary in Palestinian Politics

Issam Sartawi's journey into the heart of Palestinian politics began with a background in medicine, which he practiced before fully committing to the national movement. He quickly rose through the ranks of the PLO, becoming a senior member and a trusted advisor, particularly close to Chairman Yasser Arafat at various points. Unlike many of his contemporaries who focused solely on armed struggle, Sartawi passionately believed in the necessity of political solutions and diplomatic engagement. He was an outspoken proponent of a two-state solution, advocating for the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel, a stance that was far ahead of its time within the mainstream Palestinian leadership.

Advocacy for Dialogue and Peace

Sartawi gained international recognition for his courageous efforts to build bridges between Palestinians and Israelis. He engaged in numerous unofficial dialogues with Israeli peace activists, academics, and politicians, even when such interactions were highly contentious and often condemned by more hardline factions within the Palestinian movement. His participation in these early encounters, long before the Oslo Accords or any official recognition between the PLO and Israel, demonstrated his profound belief that direct communication and mutual understanding were essential for achieving a just and lasting peace. He famously met with figures like Israeli General Mattityahu Peled, often facing significant personal and political risks for these engagements.

The Tragic Assassination

The life of Issam Sartawi, dedicated to the pursuit of peace, ended abruptly and violently. On April 10, 1983, he was assassinated in Albufeira, Portugal, where he was attending a conference of the Socialist International. He was shot in the lobby of his hotel. The attack was quickly claimed by the Abu Nidal Organization (ANO), a highly militant Palestinian splinter group known for its extreme rejectionist views and its history of targeting PLO officials perceived as too moderate or open to dialogue with Israel. Sartawi's assassination sent shockwaves through the Palestinian leadership and the international peace movement, highlighting the deep divisions and the dangers faced by those who dared to advocate for reconciliation in a highly polarized environment.

Legacy of a Peace Advocate

Issam Sartawi's legacy is that of a trailblazer whose vision for peace and dialogue predated and, in many ways, paved the way for future peace initiatives. His unwavering commitment to a political resolution and his willingness to engage with the "other side" left an indelible mark on Palestinian political thought. While his efforts were met with fierce opposition and ultimately cost him his life, his ideas gained traction over time, influencing the PLO's eventual shift towards diplomacy and negotiations. Sartawi is remembered as a courageous intellectual and a pragmatic leader who foresaw the need for a peaceful coexistence, leaving behind a powerful example for future generations striving for peace in the Middle East.

Frequently Asked Questions About Issam Sartawi

Who was Issam Sartawi?

Issam Sartawi was a prominent Palestinian physician and a senior member of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). He was widely known for his early and persistent advocacy for dialogue and a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

What was his role in the PLO?

As a senior member of the PLO, Sartawi played a crucial role as a political advisor and a leading voice within the organization. He was particularly active in diplomatic efforts and unofficial peace initiatives.

What was Issam Sartawi known for?

Sartawi was primarily known for being a leading proponent of dialogue with moderate Israelis and for advocating for a two-state solution long before it became a widely accepted framework. His efforts to build bridges and engage in early, unofficial peace talks were highly significant.

When and where was he assassinated?

Issam Sartawi was assassinated on April 10, 1983, in Albufeira, Portugal, while attending a conference of the Socialist International.

Who was responsible for his assassination?

The assassination was claimed by the Abu Nidal Organization (ANO), a radical Palestinian militant group that opposed any form of reconciliation or dialogue with Israel.

What is Issam Sartawi's lasting legacy?

Sartawi's legacy is that of a visionary peace advocate whose ideas influenced the future trajectory of Palestinian political thought. He is remembered for his courage in pursuing diplomatic solutions and dialogue, which helped lay groundwork for subsequent peace processes.