Gaza Conflict: The fight for rights and justice

Author: Er. Kabir Khan B.E.(Civil Engg.) LLB, LLM

Introduction:

The Gaza conflict is one of the most complicated issues in the world. It is a long struggle between Israel and the people of Gaza. This conflict involves land, rights, and justice. Many lives have been lost, and the fight continues. Understanding this issue is important because it affects the lives of millions of people.

The origins of the Gaza conflict trace back several decades. In 1948, Israel became a country, and many Palestinians lost their homes. This caused frustration and a feeling of unfairness. Since then, there have been many wars, protests, and peace talks, but no permanent solution.

In 2007, Hamas took control of Gaza. This made things worse. Israel and Hamas have had many violent clashes since then. The ongoing conflict has caused immense suffering for the people of Gaza. Many of them live in poor conditions with limited access to basic needs like food and water.

One of the main reasons for the conflict is the fight for land. Israel and the Palestinians both lay claim to the same territory. This includes important cities like Jerusalem. For the Palestinians, the loss of their homes and land is a big issue. They want to return and live in peace.

The people of Gaza continue to struggle for their fundamental rights. They want freedom, the right to move freely, and access to resources. Israel controls Gaza’s borders, which makes life difficult for the people living there.

Many countries around the world have tried to help solve the Gaza conflict. There have been peace talks and agreements, but they have not worked. The people of Gaza believe that justice is not being served. They want the world to recognize their struggle and help them achieve their rights.

Historical background of the Gaza conflict:

Before Israel’s establishment in 1948, many Jews immigrated to Palestine. This happened mostly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many Jewish people were escaping danger in Europe. They faced anti-Semitism and violent attacks called pogroms.

The First Aliyah happened from 1882 to 1903. About 25,000 Jews came to Palestine during this time. Most of them were from Eastern Europe and Yemen. They aimed to farm the land and build new communities. The Second Aliyah followed from 1904 to 1914. Around 40,000 Jews immigrated during this period. Many were inspired by socialist ideas. They wanted to create a society based on farming and collective living. They started kibbutzim, which are communal farms.

These early Jewish immigrants faced many problems. They often faced resistance from the local Arab population, who felt threatened by the growing number of Jewish settlers. Despite these challenges, the immigrants built a strong foundation for Jewish life in Palestine. Their arrival changed the area’s demographics and politics, leading to ongoing tensions between Jews and Palestinians.

NOTE: EXPLANATION OF WORD “ALIYAH” AND THEIR WAVES –

“Aliyah” is a Hebrew word that means “going up.” It refers to the movement of Jews to Israel, also known as their ancestral homeland.

There have been multiple significant waves of Aliyah:

1. First Aliyah (1882-1903): Approximately 25,000 Jews migrated to Palestine, primarily from Eastern Europe and Yemen. They wanted to escape persecution and start farms.
2. Second Aliyah (1904-1914): Around 40,000 Jews immigrated. Many were motivated by socialist principles. They aimed to create a new community centered around agriculture.
3. Third Aliyah (1919-1923): After World War I, about 35,000 Jews arrived in Palestine due to the Balfour Declaration, which supported a Jewish homeland.
4. Fourth Aliyah (1924-1928): This wave included around 80,000 Jews, many fleeing economic problems in Poland and other countries.
5. Fifth Aliyah (1929-1939): Around 250,000 Jews immigrated to Palestine to flee the growing threat of Nazi Germany.
6. Post-World War II Aliyah (1945-1948): After the Holocaust, many displaced Jews sought safety in Palestine, increasing tensions with the local Arab population.

Today, Aliyah continues as Jews from all over the world move to Israel, seeking a connection to their heritage and a safe place to live.

Continue historical background of the Gaza conflict….

Early 20th Century

Ottoman Rule:

• Prior to World War I, Gaza belonged to the Ottoman Empire, and it was home to a large Arab population.

British Control and creation of Gaza Conflict:

British Control of Palestine:

• Following World War I, the Ottoman Empire disintegrated. In 1917, Britain took control of Palestine. This was a major change for the region and led to conflicts between Jewish and Arab people.

Balfour Declaration the root of Gaza Conflict:

In November 1917, Arthur Balfour, who was the British Foreign Secretary, released a statement referred to as the Balfour Declaration. This statement supported the idea of a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine. This was a very important moment in the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The Balfour Declaration was significant for several reasons. First, it was the first official support from a major power for Jewish dreams of a homeland in Palestine. This gave hope to Jewish communities worldwide, especially those escaping persecution in Europe. Many began to move to Palestine to create a new life.

However, the declaration also had serious effects on the Arab population of Palestine. Many Arabs felt betrayed because they thought their rights were ignored. This created rising tensions between Jewish and Arab communities.

The Balfour Declaration led to conflicts that continue today. It marked a turning point in the history of the region. The declaration set the stage for many years of struggle over land, identity, and national rights in Palestine. It remains a key event in understanding the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

This statement endorsed the concept of a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine. Here’s why this was important:

Political Commitment:

• The Balfour Declaration was one of the first major supports for a Jewish homeland from a big country. By stating the need for a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine, the British government recognized Jewish hopes. This support was very important for Jews worldwide, especially those escaping danger in Europe. It encouraged many to move to Palestine to start fresh. However, this declaration also caused problems with the Arab community, who felt their rights were ignored. This situation led to tensions that contributed to future conflicts in the region.

Arab Expectations:

• During the same time as the Balfour Declaration, Britain made promises to Arab leaders. They assured them that they would support Arab independence after World War I. Many Arabs believed they would get their own countries. However, the Balfour Declaration, which backed a Jewish homeland, confused and angered them. They felt betrayed by Britain and thought their dreams for independence were ignored. This led to feelings of injustice and resentment among Arabs. The promises Britain made to both Jews and Arabs caused tension and mistrust between the two groups. This confusion led to lasting conflict that continues to affect the region today.

Increased Jewish Immigration:

• After the declaration, more Jewish people moved to Palestine. Many were fleeing Europe due to rising anti-Semitism.

Growing Tensions

• As more Jewish immigrants arrived, tensions between Jews and Arabs grew for several reasons:

Land Disputes:

• Jewish immigrants started buying land. This often pushed Arab farmers off their land, leading to anger.

Cultural Clashes:

• The arrival of Jewish immigrants brought new cultures and ideas, which caused more division.

Political Mobilization:

• Arab nationalism grew as a response to British control and Jewish immigration. Arab leaders tried to unite their people against these threats.

Violence Erupts:

• By the late 1920s and 1930s, violence broke out. Riots and attacks happened on both sides. These events led to many injuries and deepened mistrust.

British control of Palestine and the Balfour Declaration caused significant conflict. The conflicting promises made to Jews and Arabs, along with rising tensions and violence, created a complicated and often violent history for the region.

Post World War II:

• UN Partition Plan (1947): The United Nations proposed splitting Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab nations. While Jewish leaders agreed to this plan, Arab leaders rejected it, resulting in violence.
• Israeli Independence (1948): When Israel declared independence in 1948, Arab countries attacked. This was the first Arab-Israeli war. Many Palestinians lost their homes, an event known as the Nakba, or “Catastrophe.”

NOTE: EXPLANATION OF TERM “NAKBA”-

The term “Nakba” means “Catastrophe” in Arabic. It refers to the mass displacement of Palestinian Arabs during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. When Israel became independent on May 14, 1948, many Palestinians left or were forced from their homes. About 700,000 Palestinians became refugees. They lost their homes, lands, and ways to make a living. The Nakba is an important event in Palestinian history. It is remembered every year on May 15 as a day of mourning. This event shows the loss of their homeland and their ongoing struggle for rights. The Nakba affects the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Palestinian identity today.

Formation of Gaza Strip:

• Egyptian Control (1948-1967): After the war, Egypt controlled the Gaza Strip. Many Palestinian refugees moved to Gaza, making it very crowded.
• Six-Day War (1967): Israel captured Gaza from Egypt during this war. This began Israeli military control over the area.

Rise of Hamas:

• First Intifada (1987-1993): In 1987, Palestinians started to oppose the Israeli occupation. During this time, Hamas formed to fight for Palestinian rights.
• Oslo Accords (1993): A peace process started with the signing of the Oslo Accords. This aimed to create peace and a separate state for Palestinians. The Palestinian Authority was set up, but not much progress was made.

Second Intifada and Further Conflict:

• Second Intifada (2000-2005): A second uprising occurred, leading to more violence. Israel took military action in Palestinian areas, and the conflict grew.
• Hamas Control (2007): Hamas won elections in 2006 and took control of Gaza in 2007. This created a split from the Palestinian Authority, which governs the West Bank. Israel and Egypt imposed a blockade on Gaza for security reasons.

Ongoing Conflict:

• Frequent Clashes: Since 2007, there have been many fights between Israel and Hamas. These conflicts have caused many deaths and much destruction in Gaza. The blockade has created a humanitarian crisis, making it hard for people in Gaza to access basic services.
• International Reactions: The conflict has attracted global attention. Countries are divided in their support for either Israel or the Palestinians.

Current Situation:

The Gaza conflict is still unresolved. Violence, humanitarian issues, and political struggles continue. The fight for land, rights, and justice remains a big part of life for people in the region.

What is relation between Gaza conflict and “Promised Land” ?

The “Promised Land” is an important idea in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It pertains to the region that God promised to Abraham and his offspring. This land is usually seen as the region of Canaan, which today includes parts of Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. It has great religious, historical, and cultural meaning, especially for Jewish people.

1. Religious Importance:

In Jewish religion, the Promised Land is part of God’s covenant with Abraham. In the Bible, God promised Abraham that his descendants would inherit this land. This promise was later given to Abraham’s son Isaac and grandson Jacob (also called Israel). Jews believe this land is their eternal home, given to them by God.

In the Book of Genesis (12:1-3), God tells Abraham to leave his country and go to a land He would show him. This land, called Canaan, was promised to Abraham’s children forever.

2. Geography of the Promised Land:

The Promised Land encompasses regions that are part of present-day Israel, Palestine, Jordan, and neighboring territories. According to the Bible, it is depicted as a territory extending from the river of Egypt—often thought to be the Nile or a lesser-known river—to the Euphrates River, located in what is now Iraq.

Key areas include:

• Canaan: The main area where the Israelites were to live.

• Jerusalem: The city that later became the religious center for the Jewish people.

3. The Story of Exodus:

The Promised Land is a big part of the Exodus story in the Bible. The Israelites, who were slaves in Egypt, were led by Moses (Hazrat Moosa alaihissalam) through the desert for 40 years to reach the Promised Land. This journey was difficult, and although Moses brought them close, he did not enter the land himself. His successor, Joshua, guided the Israelites into the land of Canaan.

God promised the Israelites a “land flowing with milk and honey,” indicating an area rich in resources like food and water.

NOTE: Today, the area of Canaan includes:

• Israel and the Palestinian regions, including the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

• Lebanon.

• Parts of Jordan and Syria.

4. Islamic Views:

In Islam, the concept of the “Promised Land” is recognized but understood differently compared to Judaism. The Quran recognizes that God gave the Israelites a special land. In Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:20-21), it is mentioned that Prophet Moses told his people to enter the Holy Land that God had promised them. However, Islam emphasizes obedience to God as the condition for keeping the land, and it does not give the same religious focus on the land as in Judaism.

In Islam, the promise of the land is linked to the obedience of God. The Israelites were given the land as long as they followed God’s commands and lived righteously. When they disobeyed, they faced punishment, such as being exiled. The Quran teaches that the land was not an eternal or unconditional gift but depended on their faithfulness to God.

While the Promised Land is not central in Islamic belief, Jerusalem is still very important in Islam. The city is home to Al-Aqsa Mosque, which is the third holiest site in Islam after Mecca and Medina. It is believed that Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven from this location during the Night Journey (Isra and Mi’raj).

5. Biblical Importance:

In the Bible, Canaan is known as the “Promised Land.” This is because God promised this land to Abraham and his descendants, which included the Israelites. After the Exodus from Egypt, the Israelites, led by Moses and later Joshua, entered and settled in Canaan. The conquest of Canaan is a central part of the biblical narrative, especially in the books of Joshua and Judges.

Canaan is often described as a land “flowing with milk and honey,” which is a metaphor for its fertility and abundance (Exodus 3:8).

The Promised Land represents a special bond between God and the Israelites, as well as their deep connection to the land of Canaan.

What is the geographical importance of Palestine land ?

The geographical importance of Palestine is crucial both historically and in modern times. The region plays a key role in the Israel-Palestine conflict. The situation becomes more complicated with the involvement of global powers, especially the United States. The U.S. support for Israel is not just about religion or politics. It is closely linked to the strategic importance of this region. Let’s explore this in more detail.

1. Strategic Location: Crossroads of Continents

Palestine is located at the junction of three continents: Asia, Africa, and Europe. For centuries, it has been a vital hub for trade routes. These routes connected the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea and beyond. Palestine’s location is close to major waterways, such as the Suez Canal. This makes it highly valuable for global trade.

Its strategic location made it a target for many empires. Whoever controlled this region had access to significant trade and resources. Empires like the Romans, Ottomans, and British fought to dominate this land. Today, its importance remains, as controlling this region gives access to crucial markets and trade paths.

• Example: The Suez Canal is in Egypt, but it is near Palestine. This canal connects Europe and Asia, making it essential for global shipping. Any disruption here would affect global trade, especially in goods like oil.

2. Israel: A Strategic Ally for the United States

Since Israel’s establishment in 1948, it has been a key ally for the U.S. The Middle East is known for its instability, and Israel provides a reliable and steady ally in the region. Israel’s position helps the U.S. maintain its influence in the region. Supporting Israel ensures that the U.S. has a strong base of operations. This partnership is crucial for global power dynamics.

The U.S. provides Israel with military aid, technology, and diplomatic backing. This support helps ensure that Israel remains strong in the region. More significantly, it ensures that U.S. interests in the Middle East are consistently defended.

• Example: During the Cold War, Israel was a counterbalance to Soviet influence. The U.S. backed Israel to stop the expansion of communism in the Middle East. Today, Israel remains an important ally for countering threats like terrorism.

3. Control Over Energy Resources

While Palestine itself does not have significant oil reserves, it is close to many oil-rich countries. The U.S. has always been involved in the Middle East because of oil. The control of energy resources is vital for the global economy. Maintaining influence over Palestine gives the U.S. access to monitor key energy routes.

Pipelines that carry oil from the Middle East pass near Palestine. Controlling or influencing these routes is important for ensuring the steady flow of energy. The region’s energy resources make it a critical area of interest for global powers.

• Example: In 1973, during the Yom Kippur War, the U.S. provided support to Israel. This led to an oil embargo by Arab nations, causing a global energy crisis. This event highlighted how control over Middle Eastern energy can impact the world economy.

4. Military Presence and Intelligence

Israel’s location also provides the U.S. with a strategic military advantage. By having a strong ally like Israel, the U.S. is able to sustain a military presence in the area. This allows the U.S. to monitor threats and project power. Israel acts as a base for intelligence gathering and military operations.

The military alliance between the U.S. and Israel is not just about protecting Israel. It also serves broader U.S. interests, such as countering the influence of countries like Iran. The U.S. can deploy forces quickly if needed, thanks to its presence in Israel.

• Example: In 2018, the U.S. set up its first permanent military installation in Israel. This base is part of a long-term strategy to protect U.S. and Israeli interests. It also helps in monitoring missile threats and gathering intelligence on hostile activities.

5. Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: A Tool for Influence

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is often viewed as a religious or territorial issue. However, the U.S. involvement is shaped by its geopolitical interests. By supporting Israel, the U.S. ensures its control over the region. This has made the conflict difficult to resolve. Palestinians view U.S. support for Israel as a major obstacle to achieving their rights and statehood.

The U.S. leverages its influence in international organizations to safeguard Israel. This support strengthens Israel’s position in the conflict. For Palestinians, it means their fight for independence is more challenging.

• Example: In 2017, the U.S. recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. This was a highly controversial move. Many countries criticized the decision, as it undermined peace efforts. Palestinians felt betrayed by this U.S. decision, which favored Israel.

6. The Abraham Accords: A Shift in Focus

Recently, the U.S. played a key role in facilitating peace agreements between Israel and various Arab countries. These agreements, known as the Abraham Accords, have changed the dynamics of the region. Countries like the UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco have normalized relations with Israel. This marks a shift in focus away from the Palestinian conflict.

The U.S. aims to create a coalition of countries that oppose Iran. By aligning Arab nations with Israel, the U.S. reduces Iran’s influence. However, this shift has sidelined Palestinian concerns. While Israel strengthens its position, the peace process with Palestine remains stalled.

• Example: The Abraham Accords were signed in 2020. They are seen as a historic step for Israel and its relations with Arab nations. Yet, Palestinians view these agreements as a setback.

 Geopolitical Interests Over Justice

The U.S. involvement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict goes beyond supporting an ally. It is about securing strategic interests in trade, energy, and military power. By backing Israel, the U.S. ensures control over a region that is crucial for global stability. This support has made the Israeli-Palestinian conflict harder to resolve.

Palestine’s geography, with its access to trade routes and proximity to energy resources, makes it valuable. The U.S. views its alliance with Israel as essential for maintaining dominance in the Middle East. This is why the conflict persists.

The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza:

Gaza faces a serious humanitarian crisis. This crisis has lasted many years and affects the daily lives of its people. It results from several problems, including blockades, lack of essential resources, and ongoing military actions.

Humanitarian Conditions:

Blockades and Restricted Access:

Since 2007, Gaza has been under a blockade, greatly restricting access and movement.. Israel and Egypt control this blockade. It prevents the free movement of goods and people. Because of this, many essential resources, like food and medical supplies, are hard to find. People often depend on humanitarian aid to meet their basic needs. If this aid stops, many families struggle to survive.

Medical Care:

The healthcare system in Gaza is very weak. Hospitals lack sufficient medicine and equipment. Many patients cannot get the specialized care they need. Traveling outside Gaza for medical treatment is extremely challenging for them. Airstrikes and conflicts also damage hospitals, making it harder for people to get care.

Impact of Airstrikes and Military Actions:

Ongoing airstrikes and military actions greatly harm civilians. These actions result in numerous deaths and injuries, particularly affecting women and children. Many people experience fear and anxiety from living in such conditions. The destruction of homes and schools leaves families without shelter and basic services.

Consequences of Limited Access:

Gaza is experiencing a lack of food and clean drinking water. The blockade makes it hard for farmers to sell their crops. Many families face food shortages, causing malnutrition. The lack of clean drinking water remains a significant problem. Much of the available water is unsafe, increasing the risk of diseases.

Healthcare and Education:

Healthcare access is limited because there are not enough supplies. Many healthcare workers are also affected by the conflict. This leads to fewer services for those in need. Education is also impacted; schools are damaged, and children cannot learn properly. The trauma from violence affects children’s ability to focus in school.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is complex. Blockades, military actions, and lack of access to basic needs create a difficult situation for the people. The ongoing conflict worsens these conditions. Many residents live in fear and despair. Urgent international help is needed to improve the lives of the people in Gaza and ensure they have their basic rights and needs met.

Human Rights and Gaza conflict:

The conflict in Gaza has led to many breaches of human rights.” These violations affect civilians, especially in Gaza. Reports from organizations like the United Nations (UN) and Amnesty International show that urgent action is needed to protect people.

Human Rights Violations in Gaza

1.Reports from International Organizations:

United Nations:

The UN has raised concerns about the crisis in Gaza. Over half of the people there live in poverty. Many need food, water, and shelter. The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) helps Palestinian refugees. They need more support to survive. The UN calls for an end to the blockade and protection for civilians.

Amnesty International:

Amnesty International has criticized both Israeli forces and armed groups in Gaza. Their reports show that airstrikes hit homes, schools, and hospitals. This violates international humanitarian law, which says that civilians must be protected during conflicts.

2.Rights of Palestinian Civilians:

Under Occupation:

Palestinian civilians face military occupation. This limits their freedom. The blockade makes it hard for them to get basic services like healthcare and education. Medical facilities often lack supplies, worsening health problems.

In Refugee Camps:

Many Palestinians live in crowded refugee camps. Conditions are dire, with restricted access to clean water and sanitation facilities. This increases health risks. Schools in these camps are not enough, leading to many children dropping out.

3.Specific Cases of Human Rights Abuses:

Loss of Homes:

Ongoing military actions have destroyed many homes in Gaza. The UN estimates that many homes have been either damaged or completely destroyed. Families are displaced and left without shelter. Many live in temporary places, making conditions worse.

Civilian Deaths:

Many civilians, especially women and children, have died in the conflict. During the 2014 Gaza War, over 500 children were killed. This raises serious concerns about protecting non-combatants.

Lack of Freedom of Movement:

The blockade limits people’s movement. It is hard for residents to leave Gaza for medical care or education. Those needing urgent treatment often face long waits at border crossings. Some even die from preventable conditions because they cannot get help.

4.Impact on Mental Health:

The continuous violence and fear have led to mental health problems in Gaza. A lot of people experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). There are not enough mental health services to help them.

5.International Response:

Despite many reports of human rights violations, accountability is still a problem. Many victims struggle to find justice. Organizations like Human Rights Watch continue to call for investigations into violations. They urge governments to hold those responsible accountable.

The fight for human rights in the Gaza conflict shows a need for justice and protection for civilians. The ongoing violations highlight the hardships faced by Palestinians. Both local and international efforts are important to address these issues. A lasting peace can only be achieved when the rights of all individuals are respected.