Public Comment

The long-standing conflict between Palestinians and Israelis has continuously evolved since 1948, raising critical questions about the nature of oppression and the right to resistance. This discourse often labels one group, the Israelis, as the oppressor, and the other, the Palestinians, as the oppressed. 

This parallels the horrors experienced by indigenous natives who were driven from their lands onto reservations by early white settlers in the United States. 

Historically, since the establishment of Israel in 1948 and subsequent Arab Israeli conflicts, Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank have lived under conditions that many international observers label as oppressive. The imposition of military control, restrictions on movement, economic sanctions, and settlement expansions by the Israeli government are often cited as major grievances by Palestinians and their advocates. 

In this context, the right to resist oppression is a fundamental human principle and is enshrined in international law, including the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Palestinians, therefore, argue for their right to resist what they perceive as Israeli oppression. 

The role of external actors such as Britain and the United States cannot be overlooked. Historically, Britain's role in the partition of Palestine and its aftermath has been significant. Moreover, the United States' consistent support of Israel, politically, economically, and militarily, has also influenced the dynamics of the conflict, often seen as exacerbating the situation rather than aiding in the resolution of the Palestinian plight. 

Labeling Hamas as "terrorists" oversimplifies the scenario and does little to advance a peaceful solution, delegitimize the other side’s actions, and struggles. Such labels may also shift focus from the core issues at hand—namely, the quest gfor self-determination, justice, and lasting peace.