The Conundrum of Gaza

First post here, so go easy on me I’ve been following the discussions and opinions on the ongoing devastation in Gaza—the mass casualties, the destruction, and dare I say, what is a genocide that continues unabated until nothing remains but the aggressors. However, one question keeps nagging at me: where are the Muslim countries? Sure, some are present at negotiation tables, but where is their tangible presence? It seems they are only present in words, not actions.

During my first combat deployment in Iraq as a young lieutenant, the battalion I served under had a motto: “Deeds, not words.” That simple phrase has stayed with me through times of confusion and chaos. It reminds me to evaluate whether words alone are sufficient or if action must follow. In the case of Gaza, Muslim countries seem stuck on words alone. It’s not enough. Real action must take place.

Why don’t we see Muslim countries taking decisive action, like sending military forces for humanitarian aid missions? Why not establish aid operations directly in Gaza, setting up safe zones and infrastructure? What I learned in combat is this: when confronted with urgent crises, make decisions quickly, act boldly, and seek forgiveness later if necessary. If any Muslim country aspires to lead the Islamic world and challenge the dominance of the Saudis or Gulf states, this is their moment—but that window is closing rapidly.

Failing to act directly on the ground means forfeiting any claim to leadership or solidarity with the Palestinians. Leaving the West and Israel to dictate terms only ensures that their interests dominate while the innocent continue to suffer. The countries of the West do not negotiate—they dictate and act decisively. Meanwhile, Muslim nations offer nothing but empty words, meaningless for the Palestinians enduring unimaginable suffering and living in inhumane conditions, praying for divine intervention.

But God, I believe, is watching. Perhaps He is waiting for those in positions of power to step up and take action. This doesn’t mean sending troops for war—it means sending forces to deliver humanitarian aid, even if by force. It will not be easy, but standing by while innocents are massacred is far worse. To stop an aggressor, you must match their decisiveness and take bold action.

If Muslim countries fail to unite and take meaningful steps, it will mark the beginning of their collective downfall. What we see in Gaza today could one day arrive at their own doorsteps. This is a moment to reflect, to act, and to recognize the stakes. The world is watching, and history will judge those who stood idly by when action was needed most.