The Palestinian Struggle Through the Lens of the Prophet’s Life

Over the past few days, I’ve found it difficult to gather the words and emotions necessary to write any posts. The profound sorrow I feel regarding the ongoing situation in The Palestinian Struggle has left me with a heavy heart, making it hard to focus on anything else.

Dear readers, I have decided to address the recent developments in the Israel-Palestine conflict in this post. I’d like to extend my apologies if my posts have appeared to lean towards a particular viewpoint, but I assure you that I’ll do my best to maintain objectivity.

The suffering and pain in the region are deeply distressing, and I hope to shed light on this complex issue with empathy and a heavy heart as I attempt to provide you with a balanced perspective.

My Visit to Palestine

In 2020, my wife and I embarked on a journey to Palestine. As we reached the Jordanian border, we encountered a rigorous screening process that involved a thorough examination of our Facebook accounts, occupation, and local address details. It was a process that extended over two long hours, and I found myself subject to a rather intense interview by an official. The questioning felt as though they suspected me of having negative intentions. Thankfully, after about 20hrs, I was cleared, and we were able to continue our journey.

Apart from this initial experience, our visit to Palestine was relatively smooth. We explored the sacred grounds of Al Aqsa and ventured around the Palestinian territories. While we noticed the ever-present military presence, it became apparent that most soldiers were simply doing their job to maintain order and prevent disturbances from the locals. (Contradicting, who needs a foreign agency to discipline the locals in their own territory?)

During our interactions with the local people, a recurring plea echoed in our conversations: “Please pray for Palestine.” The children, though playful, carried a palpable sadness in their expressions. The local stallholders were friendly and expressed their gratitude for our visit.

We had the chance to engage in conversations with a few Jewish individuals during our stay. They, too, were amicable. Many locals conveyed a stark contrast between the Israeli government and the Jewish neighbors or friends. They held predominantly negative opinions about the government while maintaining positive relations with individual Jewish people.

Regrettably, we were unable to visit Gaza due to the restrictions in place. Nevertheless, we managed to approach the walls surrounding the area, and even from a distance, we could sense the palpable feeling of being “caged” that many Gazans must endure.

I would like to highlight five key happenings in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict, taking into consideration historical context, current events, and the perspectives of all parties involved:

1. The 1948 War and the Creation of Israel:
   • Historical Context: The 1948 Arab-Israeli War, often referred to as the War of Independence or Nakba, resulted in the establishment of the State of Israel. The war led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinian Arabs.
   • Current Events: The consequences of this war, such as the Palestinian refugee issue, continue to shape the conflict. The right of return for Palestinian refugees remains a contentious issue.
   • Perspectives: Israelis view the establishment of their state as a moment of national self-determination, while Palestinians see it as the beginning of their displacement and loss.
2. The Oslo Accords and the Creation of the Palestinian Authority:
   • Historical Context: The Oslo Accords in the early 1990s were seen as a breakthrough in the peace process. They led to the creation of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and the division of the West Bank into areas under PA and Israeli control.
   • Current Events: The Oslo process has not resulted in a comprehensive peace agreement, and the Palestinian territories remain divided.
   • Perspectives: Some view the Oslo Accords as a step toward Palestinian self-governance, while others criticize them for not achieving a two-state solution.
3. The Gaza Disengagement Plan (2005):
   • Historical Context: In 2005, Israel unilaterally withdrew its settlers and military from the Gaza Strip as part of the Gaza Disengagement Plan.
   • Current Events: Gaza remains a significant flashpoint, with Israel imposing a blockade, and Hamas controlling the territory, leading to repeated conflicts and humanitarian challenges.
   • Perspectives: Israelis see the withdrawal as a move for security, while Palestinians criticize the blockade and lack of statehood.
4. The Trump Administration’s Recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s Capital (2017):
   • Historical Context: Jerusalem is a highly contested city, with religious and historical significance for multiple parties. The status of Jerusalem is a core issue in the conflict.
   • Current Events: The decision to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and recognize it as Israel’s capital was met with international controversy and protests.
   • Perspectives: Israel welcomed the U.S. decision, while Palestinians viewed it as prejudicing the outcome of future negotiations.
5. Recent Gaza Conflicts (e.g., 2021):
   • Historical Context: The Gaza Strip has been the center of multiple conflicts, with significant loss of life and destruction.
   • Current Events: In 2021, a new round of violence erupted between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, resulting in extensive casualties and damage.
   • Perspectives: Israel asserts that its military actions were in response to rocket attacks, while Palestinians and international observers raised concerns about civilian casualties.

These events illustrate the complexity of the Israel-Palestine conflict, with historical roots, ongoing disputes, and differing viewpoints on the issues at the heart of the conflict. A comprehensive and lasting resolution remains a significant challenge.

The video clip below shows the History of Israel – Palestina Conflict. 

https://www.tiktok.com/@hjtravel.official/video/7287662585313381665?q=israel%20palestine%20explained&t=1697169153834

Why HAMAS – The Palestinian Struggle?

Hamas, a Palestinian political and militant organization, has carried out attacks on Israel. While these actions are often seen as terrorism by many governments and international bodies, it’s essential to understand the perspective from which Hamas justifies its actions. Here’s a more positive tone to consider their motivations:

Hamas’ Perspective:

1. Occupation and Resistance: Hamas justifies its attacks on Israel as a form of resistance against what it perceives as Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. They argue that they are fighting for the rights and self-determination of the Palestinian people who have been living under occupation for decades.
2. Grievances and Asymmetry: Hamas points to the long-standing grievances and asymmetry in the conflict. They argue that they are defending their homeland against a powerful military force and that they have a right to protect their people and seek justice.
3. Lack of Political Progress: Hamas contends that the failure of the peace process and the ongoing expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank have left Palestinians disillusioned and frustrated. From their perspective, they are left with few alternatives for achieving their goals.

It’s important to note that while Hamas’s actions are framed by them as resistance, they are considered acts of terrorism by many international governments and organizations, including the United States, the European Union, and Israel itself. 

Challenging Apartheid: Understanding the Palestinian Struggle for Equal Rights

“Apartheid” in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict is a highly controversial and contested one. Some critics argue that Israeli policies and actions in the occupied territories amount to a form of apartheid, while others, including the Israeli government, strongly reject this characterization. It’s important to note that this is a deeply divisive issue, and different perspectives exist.

Arguments Against the Apartheid Accusation:

1. Israeli Government: The Israeli government rejects the accusation of apartheid and argues that Israel is a democratic state that upholds the rights of all its citizens, including Arab Israelis. They assert that the term is used unfairly and inaccurately.
2. Some International Leaders: Many world leaders and countries do not explicitly endorse the “apartheid” label in relation to Israel. They call for a two-state solution and peaceful resolution to the conflict but stop short of characterizing Israel’s policies as apartheid.
3. Supporters of Israel: Advocates for Israel argue that the situation is complex and should not be reduced to a simple apartheid analogy. They emphasize the security concerns and historical context that drive Israeli policies in the region.
4. Media Outlets: Some media organizations and commentators argue against the use of the term “apartheid” in describing Israel’s actions and policies. They stress the importance of a nuanced and balanced discussion of the conflict.

Arguments in Favor of the Apartheid Accusation:

1. Human Rights Organizations: Some international human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have raised concerns about Israeli policies and actions in the occupied territories. They argue that elements of the situation meet the criteria for apartheid under international law.
2. Some World Leaders: Certain world leaders and officials have described the situation as apartheid. Their criticism is based on the treatment of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, the restrictions on their movement, and the construction of Israeli settlements.
3. Advocacy Groups: Various advocacy groups, both Palestinian and international, use the apartheid analogy to highlight perceived inequalities and discrimination in the region. They argue that Israel’s policies result in separate and unequal treatment of Palestinians.
4. Some Media Outlets and Commentators: Certain media outlets and opinion pieces have used the term “apartheid” when discussing Israeli policies. These perspectives stress the importance of addressing human rights and equality concerns.

MEDIA – A BOON OR A BANE?

Boon for Israel and Bane for Palestine? (You decide)

However, there is a prevailing sentiment that a significant part of the problem is rooted in the way the media approaches this issue. Negative coverage of the Israel-Palestine conflict in Western media can take various forms, and it’s important to note that media coverage can vary widely within a given outlet. However, here are three examples of Western news agencies or reports that have been criticized for potentially biased or negative coverage:

1. Fox News:
   • Fox News has been criticized by some for perceived bias in its coverage of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Critics argue that the network often provides a more favorable view of Israeli actions and policies while sometimes downplaying or omitting certain aspects of Palestinian suffering or grievances.
2. The New York Times:
   • The New York Times, one of the most prominent newspapers in the United States, has faced criticism from various quarters regarding its reporting on the conflict. Some claim that the paper’s coverage leans towards Israel, particularly in its framing and choice of language. Critics argue that the Times may not consistently highlight the Palestinian perspective and suffering.
3. BBC:
   • The BBC, a British news agency with a global reach, has faced allegations of bias in its Israel-Palestine coverage from both Israeli and Palestinian perspectives. Some argue that the BBC may not provide a balanced portrayal of the conflict and has been accused of using language and images that could be seen as unfavorable to Palestine.

It’s important to note that media coverage is a complex issue, and perceptions of bias can vary widely based on individual viewpoints and interpretations. Additionally, media organizations often make efforts to maintain editorial independence and adhere to journalistic standards. It’s essential for readers and viewers to critically evaluate media coverage and consider a range of sources to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the conflict.

Voices of the Region: Middle East Perspectives on Palestinian Issues

The level of support from Middle Eastern Muslim countries for the Palestinian cause has varied over time, and there are several factors that influence their involvement or lack thereof in helping Palestine. Here are some key reasons:

1. Geo-Political Considerations: Many Middle Eastern countries have complex and sensitive political relationships with Israel and the United States, which impact their ability to openly support Palestine. Some nations maintain diplomatic relations with Israel or have strategic alliances with the U.S., which may lead to a reluctance to openly challenge or confront Israeli policies.
2. Internal Political and Regional Instabilities: Several Middle Eastern countries are dealing with their own internal political challenges, regional conflicts, and issues that may take precedence over their support for Palestine. These countries may be preoccupied with their own domestic and regional affairs.
3. Economic and Financial Constraints: Some Middle Eastern nations face economic challenges and may have limited resources to provide substantial financial support to Palestine. Economic and humanitarian aid is crucial for the Palestinian territories, but many Middle Eastern countries have limitations on what they can contribute.
4. Divergent Interests and Alliances: Middle Eastern countries have diverse and often conflicting interests and alliances. The Palestinian-Israeli conflict is just one of many regional issues, and these nations may prioritize their own national interests or regional alliances over the Palestinian cause.
5. Diplomatic Initiatives: Some Middle Eastern countries may prefer to engage in diplomatic efforts and negotiations to promote the Palestinian cause, rather than overtly supporting it. They may choose to work behind the scenes or within international organizations to address the issue.
6. Shifts in Alliances: The dynamics of Middle Eastern politics can change over time. Nations may alter their positions based on evolving regional and global circumstances, alliances, and domestic politics. The Arab Peace Initiative, for instance, reflects a regional diplomatic effort to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
7. Humanitarian Aid: While some Middle Eastern countries may not provide extensive political or military support to Palestine, they do often contribute humanitarian aid and development assistance to Palestinians. This support includes medical supplies, food, and other forms of relief.

It’s essential to recognize that the Middle East is a complex and diverse region with a wide range of perspectives and interests. While some countries may not openly support Palestine, others are more vocal and active in their advocacy for Palestinian rights. The issue of support for Palestine is multifaceted and reflects the intricate geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.

The Palestinian Quest Mirroring the Prophet’s Journey

A notable scenario from the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in a battle that involved divine intervention is the Battle of Uhud. This event is significant in Islamic history and offers insights into how the Prophet and his companions responded to adversity with the belief in divine support.

Situation:

The Battle of Uhud took place in the year 625 CE, following the Battle of Badr. In this battle, the Muslims faced a larger Quraysh army from Mecca. The Muslims had positioned themselves on Mount Uhud, and the battle commenced with initial success for the Muslim side. However, the situation took a turn when a group of archers left their designated positions on the mountain, creating an opening for the Meccan cavalry to attack from behind.

Overcoming the Situation:

1. Divine Guidance: Before the battle, the Prophet Muhammad received divine guidance, including strategic instructions. He emphasized the importance of holding their positions on the mountain, but some of the archers disobeyed these orders.

2. Courage and Resolve: Despite the unexpected turn of events, the Prophet Muhammad and his companions showed great courage and resilience. They continued to fight, even after sustaining losses.

3. Divine Intervention: During the battle, the Prophet Muhammad was injured. However, in the midst of the conflict, he received divine reassurance. It is said that his wounds bled, but he wiped away the blood and declared, “How can a people achieve success who wound their Prophet’s face and shed his blood while he calls them to their Lord?”

4. Retreat and Protection: Recognizing the situation’s gravity, the Prophet Muhammad ordered a strategic retreat to regroup and protect the remaining Muslims.

5. Spiritual Lessons: The Battle of Uhud provided important spiritual lessons for the Muslim community. It underscored the significance of adhering to the Prophet’s instructions, unity among the believers, and trust in divine wisdom.

The Battle of Uhud demonstrates that even in the face of unexpected challenges and setbacks, the Muslim community continued to find strength in their faith and trust in divine guidance. It emphasizes the importance of discipline, unity, and adherence to strategic plans in the midst of adversity.

While the specific historical context and dynamics of the Battle of Uhud in the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the contemporary Israel-Palestine conflict are distinct, there are some broad lessons and principles that can be drawn from both situations that may be relevant to discussions of conflict resolution, unity, and divine intervention. Here are a few ways to connect the two:

1. Adherence to Divine Guidance: In the Battle of Uhud, the Prophet Muhammad emphasized the importance of adhering to divine guidance and strategic instructions. Similarly, in the Israel-Palestine conflict, calls for a just and lasting resolution often involve the principles of adhering to international law, upholding the rights of all parties, and respecting agreed-upon agreements.

2. Unity and Cooperation: The Battle of Uhud highlighted the significance of unity and cooperation among diverse groups. In the Israel-Palestine conflict, there is an ongoing emphasis on the need for unity among Palestinians and support from the international community to address the complex and multi-faceted issues involved.

3. Divine Intervention: While both situations involve different historical contexts and circumstances, the concept of divine intervention underscores the importance of faith and trust in God’s wisdom during challenging times. In the Israel-Palestine conflict, individuals and communities often draw strength from their faith, emphasizing the need for spiritual resilience.

4. Perseverance and Moral High Ground: In both cases, the resolve to endure hardships, maintain the moral high ground, and uphold principles of justice and righteousness is crucial. The Battle of Uhud and the Israel-Palestine conflict both highlight the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

5. Lessons for Conflict Resolution: The historical lessons from the Battle of Uhud, especially those related to the importance of unity, faith, and strategic planning, can be applied to discussions and efforts aimed at resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict. The challenges faced in Uhud serve as a reminder of the complexities of conflicts and the need for innovative approaches to peace.

It’s important to recognize that these are broad principles that can be applied to various conflicts, including the Israel-Palestine conflict. While the historical context and specific circumstances differ, the underlying principles of unity, adherence to justice, and faith in divine wisdom are timeless and can serve as a source of inspiration for individuals and communities seeking peace and resolution in contemporary conflicts.

Reactions from the Muslims Around the World – Oh wait! Reactions from Us?

Muslims worldwide have responded to the conflict in Gaza with various forms of support and empathy. Special prayers and duas are being conducted during Islamic Friday prayers, discussions about the situation are prevalent, and many Muslims are joining protests and rallies to express their solidarity. These reactions reflect a global sense of compassion and a desire for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, as well as a commitment to supporting the affected populations in Gaza.

What about individuals? What are we, as individuals, doing?

I participated in Friday prayers with special dua for Palestine people. I spoke to my family about the tragic situation, and we acknowledged the suffering. However, what happened next? We resumed our daily routines, including activities like eating, watching movies, and shopping, as if nothing had happened. It felt strange, but when I looked around, I noticed many were doing the same. Some attended wedding parties, appreciating cultural diversity, while others embarked on quick vacations during the ongoing conflict between Palestine and Israel. It’s disheartening.

I felt a heavy weight on my heart, and a sense of guilt constantly lingering. I found myself skipping the video clips on TikTok app whenever news of the conflict emerged. It was as though my guilty conscience was trying to divert my attention from the disaster in Palestine and replace it with the dopamine rush provided by other light-hearted clips. It became an escape mechanism. So, what’s happening to me? I realized that I’m mirroring the behavior of some Middle Eastern countries that acknowledge the suffering in Palestine but quickly return to their usual routines. In some cases, it’s even worse; people are fully aware of the situation but choose to plan vacations or attend joyous events, like the Israelis. We can see how Israel’s government is trying to eradicate GAZA just like squishing the ants.

Sometimes, we postpone our own plans, outings, or family gatherings when a loved one falls ill or meets with an accident. But when our brothers, sisters, and innocent children are losing their lives in Palestine, we continue to celebrate and enjoy ourselves. It’s a source of shame.

This weekend, I’m supposed to attend a non-Islamic wedding reception. My heart tells me not to go, but worldly obligations are pushing me in the opposite direction. I wonder if those non-Muslims would be puzzled to see us celebrating with them during such conflict. I’m unsure which side will prevail. But one thing is certain: I don’t want to be a hypocrite and bring disgrace to my brothers and sisters in Palestine.

Will you?

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