In recent years, the long-standing conflict between Israel and Palestine has once again come into the global spotlight. The ongoing violence and bloodshed in Palestine have forced the international community to face its role in perpetuating the systematic oppression and occupation of the Palestinian people. Amidst all of this, one voice stands out – that of Palestinian activist Eman Abdelhadi. Through her tireless efforts, she explains the history of imperialist support for Israel’s colonial conquest of Palestine, the Palestinian people’s steadfast resistance, and the urgent need for global solidarity with their freedom struggle.
To fully understand the current situation in Palestine, it is important to delve into its history. Decades before the 1948 war that led to the formation of the state of Israel, European colonial powers had played a significant role in the region. With the rise of Zionism, a political movement that sought to establish a Jewish homeland in Palestine, European powers saw an opportunity to further their interests in the Middle East. And so, they began to provide financial and military support to the Zionist settlers, allowing the influx of Jewish immigrants to Palestine while disregarding the rights and existence of the indigenous Palestinian population.
This support for the settler colonial project and the displacement of Palestinians did not stop with the establishment of Israel. On the contrary, it continued and even intensified as Israel expanded its territory through military force. The 1967 war marked a significant turning point as Israel occupied the rest of historic Palestine, including the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem. This ongoing occupation, along with Israel’s policies of apartheid, land confiscation, and illegal settlements, has resulted in the displacement and persecution of millions of Palestinians.
But despite decades of oppression, Palestinians have remained steadfast in their resistance. Eman Abdelhadi, like many Palestinians, has witnessed the brutal reality of life under occupation. She has seen her home demolished, her family members imprisoned and killed, and her people denied basic human rights. Yet, she continues to speak out against the injustices and advocate for Palestinian rights.
It is this unwavering resistance that has kept the Palestinian struggle alive. From the First Intifada to the ongoing Great March of Return, Palestinians have shown that they will not bow down to their oppressors. They have used various forms of resistance, from nonviolent protests to armed resistance, to demand their freedom and self-determination. And despite the overwhelming odds stacked against them, they have managed to inspire the world with their resilience and determination.
The international community has a crucial role to play in the Palestinian struggle. For too long, powerful nations have turned a blind eye to Israel’s blatant violations of international law and human rights. Instead, they have supported and even aided Israel in its colonial project. The United States, in particular, has been a staunch ally of Israel, providing billions of dollars in military aid every year. This unconditional support has emboldened Israel to continue its occupation and illegal practices with impunity.
But the tide is slowly turning. People around the world are starting to wake up to the reality of the situation in Palestine. They are standing in solidarity with the Palestinian people and demanding an end to the occupation. From the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement to grassroots campaigns, more and more people are using their voices and actions to support the Palestinian struggle for freedom and justice.
Eman Abdelhadi and other Palestinian activists have been at the forefront of this global solidarity movement. Through their tireless efforts, they have brought attention to the Palestinian cause and demanded accountability from those who support Israel’s occupation. Their courage and determination serve as an inspiration to all those fighting for justice and human rights.
The fight for the liberation of Palestine is far from over. But with the steadfast resistance of the Palestinian people, the growing global solidarity movement, and the unwavering determination of activists like Eman Abdelhadi, we can believe that a free Palestine is possible. It is time for the international community to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and support their struggle for self-determination and a just peace. As Eman Abdelhadi reminds us, the Palestinian cause is not just a political issue, but a moral one. We must take action now, for the freedom of Palestine and the dignity of its people depend on it.
