This chapter presents the research methodology and conceptual foundations of this study on the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. It combines analysis of primary and secondary sources – including archival research in London, Jerusalem, Washington, DC, and Oslo – with over one hundred semi-structured interviews. These interviews with senior officials and diplomats from ten countries and the United Nations form a rich oral history, offering firsthand insights into key moments, strategic decisions and ethical dilemmas. The conceptual framework draws on theories of justice, conflict resolution, negotiation, mediation and facilitation, as well as the concepts of political ripeness, compromise, superforecasting and spoiler management. It integrates normative and empirical scholarship to explore the conditions for peace, emphasising the role of intermediaries and the need for sustained, coordinated engagement. The chapter argues that principled compromise – anchored in analytical rigour and institutional resilience – is vital for lasting peace. This framework informs the study’s empirical analysis and contributes to broader debates in international relations, law and peace studies.