What’s common between Christmas and Diwali? Or what’s common between Easter and Eid? Well, The answer lies in their shared distinction as the most jubilant occasions within their respective communities. 7th October 2023, was somewhat similar for the Jews as it was a day where they came forward and celebrated ‘Love and Harmony’ as it was the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah. There was music, love, and happiness until hundreds of armed men descended from the sky in parachutes near a music festival- what ensued were ceaseless volleys of gunfire, mercilessly targeting unarmed revelers. Their transgression? Merely partaking in the festivities of the festival or, perhaps, being Jewish—an identity deemed culpable. But this isn’t something new! Israel’s past has always been tumultuous with constant struggles and fierce gaping wars. It all began when the U.N. in 1948 granted the Jews their own country. This was just after almost two-thirds of the entire Jewish Population in Europe was reduced in the Holocaust due to a Fanatic Austrian Art School Reject who espoused the Aryan Supremacy Theory. Unhappy with the decision of the Partition of the state of Palestine- the Arab Nations waged war with Israel- just a day after the U.N declaration. Imagine surviving the most virulent onslaught borne of animosity towards an entire community, only to find oneself embroiled in subsequent conflicts, facing a different adversary each time! This initial strife marked but the commencement of a series of disquieting, ruthless, and sanguinary wars that would unfold in the annals of history.
Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam invalidates it, just as it invalidated others before it
The preamble to the 1988 charter, clearly states Hamas’ mindset, boldly proclaiming Israel’s existence. It is crucial to delve into Hamas's origin and objectives, to drive a meaningful and practical solution amid the involvement of various "so-called powers" struggling to address the issue, possibly driven by political and global agendas. Over the years the issue seems to have worsened and the "actual path to peace" is yet to be achieved. Hamas, the Islamic Resistance Movement was established by Sheikh Ahmed Yassin in 1987, as a reaction to the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO). It was a political and violent wing of the Muslim Brotherhood. The 1988 charter of Hamas clearly stated “Jihad” as the only way to reclaim Palestine, subject to Muslim laws. Secondly, this charter also uses anti-semitism, employing a tactical approach to influence mindsets, previously used by Hitler against the Jews.
"It is forbidden to kill; therefore all murderers are punished unless they kill in large numbers and to the sound of trumpets." - Voltaire
We can go ahead and keep talking about how this seems to be a war between the aggressors and the “Defenders” BUT there’s no denying that there’s no Winner in a war. This prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas has foisted severe damage on Palestine's rich shade of art and culture. The constant trouble of the destruction of structure, and relegation of communities have taken a risk on the artistic heritage of the region The arts, historically a resilient reflection of societal strength, are grappling with the profound challenges posed by the enduring conflict.
The restricting atmosphere of conflict imposes extreme limitations on creative expression and the very essence of cultural vitality. it's frequently said," To destroy a community, keep them far from books and near to arms," a dictum that tragically finds resonance then. A typical infant enters the world surrounded by love and care, yet, the narrative diverges starkly for a child born in Palestine. Instead of a plush crib nestled against their mother's bosom, they are ushered into a war-affected, poverty-stricken reality. This persistent state of tension begets a new generation of Palestinian children grappling with uncertain futures, navigating a constant state of war, and contending with minds regularly infused with anti-Semitic sentiments.
The intertwined relationship between the Middle East and politics is well-established. The complex web of historical and geopolitical factors contributed to the challenging situation in the region, resulting in a Cold War situation. The enduring Israel-Palestine conflict is often considered a linchpin for achieving peace in the region. As far as the war is concerned, some big powers including the US, Saudi Arabia, and Iran are involved. Interestingly, the war seems to have been driven by Iran’s agenda rather than the usual US. 6 wars and 2 uprisings during 75 years have created a divide amongst the Middle East region, and obviously, civilians suffer. The strained relationship between Shia-dominated Iran and Sunni-dominated Saudi for the regional power struggles and these are the 2 nations involved in every conflict in the region. After the Islamic revolution, the anti-US Iran has not recognized the state of Israel, which previously had accepted their right to exist in 1950. Despite Hamas being a Sunni-dominated group it is always supported and funded by Iran. It is also feared that Hezbollah, again an Iran-backed militant group and a political party in Lebanon, may launch an attack on Israel. Peace treaties such as the Abraham Accords, signed in 2020 between Israel, UAE and Bahrain mediated by the US, marked a significant step towards regional peace. Another promising treaty between Saudi and Israel is disrupted by the conflict. On successful implementation of these agreements, Saudi Arabia would potentially wield greater influence isolating Iran from the Muslim World. It is suspected that Iran orchestrated the war for this reason. The impact of the Israel-Palestine war conflict on India is projected to be indirect. India maintains diplomatic ties with both Arabs and Israel, adopting a balanced approach. India-Israel trade is estimated to be around 10.5 billion USD. An increment in the oil prices is suspected due to increased import costs, reminiscent of the 1973 war when Arabs quadrupled the oil prices. The last time was a nightmare for the world, the Russia-Ukraine war. Even the India-Middle East corridor, which involved roads and railways, is likely to face delays or can even be cancelled due to the war. Given the potential repercussions, India is urged to carefully analyze each step in response to the conflict.
OSLO ACCORDS 1993: Yitzhak Rabin, Bill Clinton and Yasser Arafat at the White House
Amidst all these, there have been numerous attempts at establishing peace from both sides often including a seemingly neutral third party! In the long list of these efforts, the notable milestones include the Oslo Accords of the 1990s, where both parties tentatively agreed to a two-state solution which also has been the official take of the Republic Of India and the United Nations on this issue. However, there were many challenges while implementing the same which included the refugee crisis and most importantly the status of Jerusalem encumbered the progress. The Camp David Summit in 2000 and the Annapolis Conference in 2007 also targeted to address these issues but faced significant hurdles. Combined International efforts, such as the Quartet's involvement which included the United Nations, the United States, the European Union, and Russia also played a role in achieving the irredeemable task though achieving consensus remained elusive. This also summarises the need for an "Actual" solution instead of flowing with emotions and carrying the baggage of otherwise futile “Diplomatic solutions”. Despite the sporadic breakthroughs, the overarching challenge has been establishing trust and navigating deeply rooted historical, cultural, and religious grievances. The ongoing cycle of negotiations reflects the persistent pursuit of peace, yet the complexities involved underscore the formidable task of finding a comprehensive and mutually acceptable resolution in the region.
Over 10,000 people, 40 percent of them being children, have been killed in Gaza after the Israeli airstrikes, prompting an urgent need for an effective solution. While Hamas launched around 5000 missiles, combining the attack strategically through land, air, and sea through looting, killing, and kidnapping, Israel’s full-scale war declaration worsened conditions in already vulnerable Gaza. With around 2 million civilians living in Gaza on approximately 365 m², the population density of that piece of land is among the highest in the world. Gaza is often referred to as an "Open Prison" by the Israelis due to the dire living conditions in the region. The region witnesses a shortage of food, water, electricity, and other necessities, exacerbated by Israel’s economic blockade since 2007, ever since Hamas took over the region. Gaza's challenges include a more than 50% unemployment rate, limited electricity, only 12 hours of electricity per day, and a global rank of 53 regarding the food crisis. The only cancer hospital in Gaza has been forced to shut down and other hospitals are on the brink of closing due to a shortage. The attack on the Jabalia Refugee Camp was certainly unacceptable. Gaza desperately needs a humanitarian pause right now. The sufferings of Gaza’s civilians emphasize the need for Israel to reconsider their strategies. While the situation escalates, it is crucial not to generalize the issue to the Jews, Muslims, and Christians, The focus should be on Hamas and their unlawful activities as the reason for the suffering.
Israel-Palestine!
History stands tall as a witness to several valiant efforts that were made in order to restore peace in the Gaza Strip. This battle has now engulfed generations. Unfortunately, the cycle of violence shows no signs of abating. In such circumstances, making brave decisions becomes imperative. These decisions shouldn't solely rest on the shoulders of those on the battleground defending their homeland; even common people like us have a role to play. Our opinions matter, and it's essential to speak dauntlessly.
The Actual peace lies in the Complete control and Annexation of Palestine. It might be just another battle for the terrorists of Hamas but for Israel, it’s time to put a full stop to the cowardly attacks from the other side of the border as talks for peace could be done with an elected Democratic representative and not a Terrorist organization using women and children as a shield for their Ultimate Motto of “Global Jihad”. This is the most viable solution given the current power vacuum in the region. And as for the “Innocent” Children and Women of Palestine- Let Egypt, Sudan, Canada, Iran, Turkey, and Qatar open their borders and do it for the “Greater Glory of God” because "The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.” "Al-Hujurat" (Q49:10).
~ Anish Kishore and Yogesh Kumar