Global Awareness and Understanding of the Israel vs. Gaza Conflict
The internet and social media have transformed the way the world becomes aware of global events. However, does a high level of awareness translate into a comprehensive understanding of complex conflicts, such as the Israel vs. Gaza conflict?
Myths and Misconceptions About Palestine and the Conflict
Some believe that Palestine has already established itself and is in conflict with Israel. This is a misconception. The Palestinian State has not yet been fully established. Moreover, the conflict is primarily between Israel and the government of Gaza, not an imaginary Palestinian government.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are currently engaged in a battle with the Hamas government in Gaza. Disregarding these facts can lead to misinterpretations of the situation. Understanding the true roots of the conflict is crucial for reaching a lasting solution.
Blockade and Negotiations
The main current obstacle to negotiations is the Israeli blockade of Gaza. Opening the Philadelphia Corridor could indeed allow for the regrouping and rearming of extremist groups. However, it is not the Israelis who should be pressured to leave the Gaza-Egypt border. Instead, addressing the root cause of the conflict, which is heavily influenced by external powers, is essential.
The implications of this situation are far-reaching. The 3H - Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis - are being manipulated by Iran, which is often referred to as the "puppet master." Until Iran ceases its active aggression through its "axis of terror," the conflicts in the region will likely continue.
Global Perceptions of the "Question of Palestine"
The perception of the "Question of Palestine" varies widely across different countries. For instance:
United Kingdom and France
Historical Foundations: The UK and France laid the groundwork for the Palestinian problem in 1916 and 1917, respectively. In 2017, Al Jazeera’s undercover investigation of Israeli lobbies in London led to a high-profile legal battle involving allegations of antisemitism, despite it being part of investigative journalism.Germany
Historical Complicity: Germany’s role in the Zionist movement dates back to the 1930s with the Haavara Agreement with the Nazis. Compensations agreed upon in the 1950s may still be ending up in Israeli bank accounts, leading to continued tensions. The German government's current stance is understandable given its wartime past.United States
Zionist Influence: The US has had a long-standing relationship with Israel, dating back to the early 20th century. The AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) was established in the 1960s to unify and strengthen the political ties between the two nations. The American perception of Israel is largely shaped by this close relationship.Asian Countries
Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Pakistan have different perceptions, partly based on their historical ties with the British and Dutch. They have never recognized the Israeli state due to their colonial past and religious affiliations.
Horn of Africa
Similarly, countries in the Horn of Africa, which our group GLOSM visited, have limited perceptions of global issues, including the Israel vs. Gaza conflict.
In conclusion, while the global awareness of the Israel vs. Gaza conflict is high, there is a significant gap in the understanding of historical contexts and root causes. Addressing this gap through education and informed discourse is crucial for finding sustainable solutions.