Hussein Aboubakr Mansour on Why the End of Palestinian Nationalism Can Bring Hope to Palestinians
Feb 28, 2025
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Hussein Aboubakr Mansour, a research fellow at the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism & Policy, dives into the complexities of Palestinian nationalism. He reflects on the decline of traditional leadership and the surprising opportunities that arise from recent conflicts. Mansour argues for a reimagining of identity, prioritizing individual rights over collective narratives. He critiques how historical narratives and groups like Hamas shape Palestinian experiences, advocating for new leadership that prioritizes the well-being of everyday Palestinians.
The potential for a new Palestinian identity lies in constructing a narrative that prioritizes coexistence over traditional victimhood and nationalism.
Recent events have deepened disillusionment about renewed Palestinian nationalism, emphasizing the need for practical solutions beyond outdated ideological frameworks.
Deep dives
The Evolving Concept of Palestinian Nationalism
The initial exploration of Palestinian nationalism envisioned a reimagining based on the complexities and historical roots of the identity. This perspective highlighted the problematic aspects of traditional Palestinian literature and ideologies that hindered a path toward coexistence with Israel. It suggested that a new generation of Palestinians could craft a positive national identity divorced from its violent and victim-centric history. However, this hopeful vision was predicated on the possibility of substantial ideological shifts within Palestinian society, recognizing the shortcomings of previous narratives.
Disillusionment After October 7th
In the aftermath of the events of October 7th, a stark disillusionment emerged regarding the feasibility of a renewed Palestinian nationalism. Observing the reactions within Palestinian communities, including a celebration of violence, led to a reevaluation of the hope for a constructive national identity. External political influence and the perpetuation of outdated narratives hindered meaningful progress towards a two-state solution. The ongoing conflict reinforced the perception that entrenched ideologies would dominate over the desire for a practical, peaceful resolution.
The Problems with Nationalism
Palestinian nationalism was critiqued as a source of misery rather than a protective shield against external violence. It was framed as a narrative steeped in perpetual victimhood, rallying around grievances without seeking genuine aspirations for statehood or coexistence. The inability to morally separate between the Palestinian people and the nationalist ideology contributed to a cycle of violence and resentment. This perspective challenged existing assumptions about the role of nationalist identities in securing dignity and freedom for individuals.
Rethinking the Future of Palestinians
A call was made to dissolve the Palestinian national project in favor of seeking realistic solutions that prioritize individual and communal dignity. The notion proposed integrating Palestinians within broader Arab societies or even within Israel itself, suggesting that such an approach could provide practical benefits and greater security. This shift in focus underscored the idea that traditional nationalistic ideals had become untenable, perpetuating suffering rather than alleviating it. Ultimately, the conversation advocated for a transformation in how identity and meaning are conceived, moving away from abstract national ideals toward concrete solutions for everyday lives.
Last February, the Egyptian-American intellectual Hussein Aboubakr Mansour wrote an article in which he considered the possibility of a new idea of Palestinian nationalism. The IDF was destroying Hamas. The remnant of the Palestinian Authority’s legitimacy and trust among the frustrated Palestinians—already weak—was decaying at an accelerated rate. The grotesque complicity of UNRWA in Hamas’s crimes might yet deal enough of a blow to the international Palestine-human-rights complex that Mansour could allow himself to hope that the old idea of Palestine might be susceptible to being replaced by something different, something more constructive. A consequence of Hamas activating a series of events that led to war and defeat and destruction might also lead to an opportunity to re-found Palestinian nationalism on healthier foundations.
One year later, after watching Palestinians in Gaza cheering the remains of the Bibas children, murdered in Gaza and then kept as monstrous ransom, Mansour recently revised the possibility of a renewed Palestinian nationalism, and in light of all that has transpired, came to a different conclusion altogether.
Today, Hussein Aboubakr Mansour, a research fellow at the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism & Policy and contributor to Mosaic, joins Jonathan Silver to discuss his essay, “Why There Should Not Be a Palestine,” published on his Substack, the Abrahamic Critique and Digest.
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