Meaning: The quote by Yitzhak Rabin, a prominent Israeli statesman, reflects on the complex dynamics that led to the convening of the Madrid Peace Conference in 1991. The conference, which marked a significant milestone in the quest for peace in the Middle East, was the first time that Israeli and Arab delegations engaged in direct negotiations. Rabin's quote underscores the pivotal role played by international events, particularly the crisis in the Gulf and the firm stance of the United States, in setting the stage for the historic gathering in Madrid.

The "change on the international scene" referred to in the quote likely alludes to the shifting geopolitical landscape in the aftermath of the Gulf War. The conflict, which erupted in 1990 following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, had far-reaching implications for regional stability and global security. The swift and decisive response of the United States, along with a coalition of international partners, to repel Iraqi forces from Kuwait demonstrated a willingness to confront aggression and uphold the principles of international law.

Rabin's reference to "the crisis in the Gulf" highlights how the Gulf War served as a catalyst for reevaluating the longstanding enmities and entrenched conflicts in the Middle East. The heightened tensions and realignment of power dynamics in the region created an opportunity for diplomatic initiatives aimed at addressing the underlying sources of instability and fostering dialogue between adversaries.

Furthermore, Rabin emphasizes the "strong, firm position of the United States against aggression between two Arab countries" as a crucial factor in shaping the conditions that paved the way for the Madrid Peace Conference. The unwavering support of the United States for a peaceful resolution to the Arab-Israeli conflict, coupled with its commitment to deterring aggression, contributed to a climate conducive to diplomatic engagement and negotiation.

The Madrid Peace Conference, which was co-sponsored by the United States and the Soviet Union, brought together delegations from Israel, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and the Palestinians. The conference marked a departure from previous diplomatic efforts, as it provided a forum for direct, face-to-face discussions between bitter adversaries who had long been at odds.

The negotiations that ensued at the Madrid Peace Conference laid the groundwork for subsequent bilateral talks and ultimately led to the signing of the Oslo Accords in 1993, which represented a breakthrough in Israeli-Palestinian relations. While the road to peace remained fraught with challenges and setbacks, the Madrid Conference symbolized a significant step towards addressing the deep-seated conflicts in the Middle East through dialogue and negotiation.

In conclusion, Yitzhak Rabin's quote underscores the pivotal role of international events and the resolute stance of the United States in creating the conditions that culminated in the convening of the Madrid Peace Conference. The conference represented a watershed moment in the quest for peace in the Middle East and set in motion a series of diplomatic initiatives that sought to address the longstanding grievances and hostilities in the region. The legacy of the Madrid Conference continues to reverberate in efforts to resolve the complex and enduring conflicts that have plagued the Middle East for decades.