Behind the News: Israel's Imperial Patrons w/ Rashid Khalidi
Oct 7, 2024
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Rashid Khalidi, a historian specializing in Palestinian history and author of The Hundred Years' War on Palestine, discusses the settler-colonial roots of Israeli nationalism and the imperial support that has historically shaped it. Aurélie Daher, a political science professor and expert on Hezbollah, analyzes the group's resilience following its leader's assassination and its strategic military dynamics. Together, they explore the complicated interplay of colonial history, U.S.-Israel relations, and the current political landscape in the Middle East.
Rashid Khalidi argues that Israeli settler-colonialism has deep historical roots linked to British imperial interests and the Balfour Declaration.
The Palestinian leadership has struggled to adapt to changing political realities, leading to frustrations that spurred grassroots movements outside traditional structures.
Hezbollah's resilience post-Nasrallah's assassination reflects its strong community ties and adaptable leadership, though future internal dynamics remain uncertain.
Deep dives
The Historical Context of the Palestinian Conflict
The long-standing conflict involving the Palestinian people is rooted in historical events, particularly centered around the Balfour Declaration of 1917. This declaration expressed British support for establishing a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine, ignoring the majority Palestinian population at that time. Rashid Khalidi emphasizes that early Zionist leaders openly recognized their actions as part of a settler colonial process, aiming to take over land occupied by Palestinians. Despite modern framing that often casts Zionism as anti-colonial, the historical narrative underscores the dispossession of Palestinians and the ongoing settler colonial dynamics evident in Israeli policies.
British Imperial Interests and the Zionist Movement
Rashid Khalidi discusses the dual motivations behind British support for the Zionist movement, intertwining ideological and strategic interests. Ideologically, British support stemmed from a Christian duty to facilitate the return of Jews to their homeland, a view rooted in 19th-century Protestant beliefs. Strategically, Britain sought control over Palestine to safeguard its imperial interests, particularly concerning the Suez Canal and access to India. This complex relationship between Zionism and British imperialism shaped the trajectory of the Palestinian conflict and the establishment of Israel.
Failures of Palestinian Leadership
Khalidi critiques the traditional Palestinian leadership for its inability to adapt to the changing political landscape and effectively represent the Palestinian cause. Historically composed of notable class landowners and bureaucrats from the Ottoman Empire, this leadership failed to form a true national bourgeoisie with democratic engagement. This disconnect ultimately led to widespread disillusionment, paving the way for a grassroots uprising that was not organized by traditional leaders. Over time, the leadership of the PLO has also proven inept in strategic political maneuvering, compromising the Palestinian struggle against overwhelming Israeli dominance.
Hezbollah's Organizational Resilience
After the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah's internal structure and leadership dynamics were examined concerning its future effectiveness. While Nasrallah was a prominent figure, the organization's decision-making is collegial, ensuring its continued operation despite the loss of key leadership. New generations of fighters have emerged, motivated by a desire to avenge Nasrallah's death, reflecting Hezbollah's strong roots within Lebanese society. The assassination is unlikely to dismantle the organization, as it continues to have a resilient military and civilian framework deeply embedded in local communities.
Future Prospects for Hezbollah and Regional Dynamics
Hezbollah is expected to adapt to any challenges posed by Nasrallah's assassination, maintaining its status as a significant force in the region. The group’s effective structure allows for the replacement of leadership and continued motivation among its fighters. However, the broader implications for Lebanese society remain uncertain, particularly regarding how new leadership will handle internal dynamics and civil peace. While the assassination may lead to temporary solidarity among various Lebanese factions, critiques of Hezbollah's actions in the regional conflict could resurface in the future, highlighting ongoing tensions within the country.
Rashid Khalidi, author of The Hundred Years War on Palestine, talks about Israeli settler-colonialism and its imperial patrons. Aurélie Daher looks at Hezbollah and the challenges it faces after the assassination of its leader.
Behind the News, hosted by Doug Henwood, covers the worlds of economics and politics and their complex interactions, from the local to the global. Find the archive online: https://www.leftbusinessobserver.com/radio.html
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