The State of the War on Palestine with Rashid Khalidi
Dec 4, 2024
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Rashid Khalidi, a prominent Palestinian-American historian and author of "The Hundred Years' War on Palestine," joins to discuss the ongoing crisis in Gaza. He articulates the severe humanitarian situation and questions the effectiveness of military strategies. The conversation delves into the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, examining the impact of settlements and the idea of accountability. Khalidi also explores the shifting public opinion regarding the conflict, particularly among younger generations, and emphasizes the urgent need for international recognition of Palestinian rights.
The ongoing war in Gaza has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with 44,000 Palestinian casualties amid deteriorating living conditions and displacement.
Israel's military approach has been criticized for its lack of effectiveness in achieving lasting security, raising doubts about the viability of a military solution.
Emerging global support for Palestinian rights among youth signifies a shift in public opinion, challenging entrenched U.S. policies favoring Israel amidst calls for a reevaluation.
Deep dives
Escalating Conflict in Gaza
The ongoing war in Gaza, which escalated following the October 7th attack by Hamas, has resulted in significant civilian casualties and destruction. Approximately 44,000 Palestinians have lost their lives due to the conflict, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis characterized by injuries, displacement, and worsening living conditions. As the hostilities continue, there is a fear of the conflict spilling over into neighboring regions, creating the potential for a wider regional war. Calls for a ceasefire from activists around the world have been met with controversy, as discussions about the appropriateness of protests overshadow the urgent need for a resolution.
Limited Effectiveness of Military Actions
Despite Israel's military efforts, including the elimination of key Hamas leaders, these actions have not proven effective in achieving long-term security or peace. The continued bombing has resulted in further civilian casualties without significantly degrading Hamas's operational capabilities. Analysts question what remains of Israel's military objectives, as the ongoing assaults seem more punitive than strategic, leading to speculation about the potential for a military solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The situation raises concerns regarding the human cost of such military actions and the broader implications for both sides.
Cycle of Desperation and Resistance
The population of Gaza, characterized by extreme poverty and marginalization since the Nakba in 1948, continues to resist against occupation and blockade. There is a historical precedent for militancy in Gaza, where conditions have fostered groups like Hamas to thrive amidst hopelessness. Many Gazans feel cornered without viable options for a peaceful existence, leading them to join armed resistance as they perceive resistance as their only means of survival. The cycle of violence perpetuates as these groups manage to reconstitute themselves despite military losses, driven by a sense of desperation among the population.
The Political Landscape in Israel
The current Israeli political situation is marked by a right-wing government that resists pressure for a two-state solution. While public sentiment might lean toward peace, the strength of extremist factions within the government significantly hampers any political will for compromise. Key political figures utilize nationalistic rhetoric to galvanize support, and this is exacerbated by public fear stemming from recent attacks. The ability of citizens to campaign for peace is undermined as the political landscape is dominated by those advocating for military solutions rather than diplomatic engagement.
Shifts in Global Perception and Support
The conflict in Gaza has sparked a noticeable shift in global public opinion, particularly among youth, who increasingly support Palestinian rights. As international condemnation of the violence grows, solidarity movements are surfacing in various countries, pressuring political leaders to reconsider their stances. Despite this shift, the U.S. political climate remains deeply entrenched in support of Israel, driven by longstanding alliances and strategic interests. However, dissenting voices within the Democratic Party signal a potential reevaluation of this position, influenced by younger constituents advocating for a change in policy.
Challenges to Achieving Peace
The road to peace remains fraught with obstacles as entrenched narratives and conflicts of interest overshadow the push for a lasting resolution. The inherent rights of Palestinians for self-determination must be acknowledged for peace to be attainable, yet meaningful action from the international community remains absent. Discussions surrounding a two-state solution have largely become rhetorical, with little focus on the necessary conditions to make such a proposal feasible. Without external pressure to halt violence and facilitate dialogue, the prospect of a peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians appears bleak.
The war in Gaza has been going on for over a year, killing 44,000 Gazans and leaving countless others injured or displaced. With no ceasefire on the horizon, the question remains: where do things go from here? This week, Adam is joined by Palestinian-American historian Rashid Khalidi, author of The Hundred Years' War on Palestine: A History of Settler Colonialism and Resistance, 1917–2017, to examine the ongoing devastation in Gaza and what possibilities, if any, exist for a path forward. Find Rashid's book at factuallypod.com/books
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