The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, one of the most contentious disputes in modern history, continues to affect the lives of millions on both sides of Jerusalem. Israel’s continued, decades-long oppression of the Palestinian people has left them with nothing but to retaliate against the occupied forces.
The irony is that the people in Palestine have been denied the right to self-determination for long. They are forced to do all kinds of atrocities and must go through a vigorous process to secure basic human rights – access to food, land, travel facilities, and build a secure home.
Life under occupation is marked by daily struggles and uncertainty. The Israeli forces have restricted free movement by building a network of checkpoints, severely impacting access to education, healthcare, and employment. The Palestinian families face atrocities, house demolitions, and land encroachments due to expanding settlements.
Despite these hardships, Palestinians have shown remarkable resilience and continue to strive for freedom. However, the prevailing situation in the war zone has taken a psychological toll on them, as the vicious cycle of violence remains a significant challenge for them to address.
The Root
The roots of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict trace back to the Arab-Israeli War (1948) that resulted in the establishment of the State of Israel. For Palestinians, this period, known as the Nakba or “catastrophe,” marked the mass displacement of hundreds of thousands, including innocent children and women. In the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel seized control of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem to further escalate tensions. As the situation stands, these three territories have faced Israel’s wrath the most and form the heart of the conflict.
A Glimpse into Reality
For Palestinians living in the occupied territories, daily life has been invariably influenced by restrictions and uncertainties. Checkpoints, barriers, and permits often hamper their movement. The West Bank, for example, is dotted with over 100 checkpoints, forcing them to compromise on their travel, work, education, and access to healthcare. The demolished infrastructure in major cities adds to their misery as well.
Economic Struggles
The economic impact of the occupation is palpable. Restrictions on movement and limited access to resources significantly hinder economic development. In Gaza, the blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt has led to a severe humanitarian crisis. High unemployment rates, especially among youth, exacerbate poverty and foster frustration and despair, leaving them with no choice but to suffer.
Social and Psychological Impacts
The Palestinian society remains deeply affected by the ongoing occupation. Border restrictions often separate families, and many live under the constant threat of house demolitions and forced evictions. In East Jerusalem and the West Bank, Israeli forces continue to encroach upon Palestinian land, leading to frequent clashes and skirmishes.
Psychologically, the occupation takes a toll on mental health. The pervasive presence of military forces, coupled with frequent episodes of violence, instils a persistent sense of fear and trauma. Studies have shown high rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues among Palestinian children and adults alike.
Education and Opportunity
Education remains a crucial avenue for Palestinian resilience and hope. Despite the challenging circumstances, there is a strong emphasis on academic achievement and excellence within the Palestinian community. However, schools and universities often face disruptions due to military operations, curfews, and uncalled-for restrictions.
International Perspectives and Aid
The international community remains divided over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, various countries and organizations offer differing levels of support for the Palestinian cause. Humanitarian aid is crucial for many Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, where UN agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) provide essential services. However, aid alone cannot address the root causes of the conflict, and there are ongoing calls for a political resolution of the conflict that ensures durable peace and justice for both Israelis and Palestinians. But it all seems to be a far-fetched reality.
The international community’s role is pivotal in facilitating dialogue and promoting policies that foster peaceful coexistence and respect for human rights. It’s the only way forward for the authorities on both sides of the border.
Christopher Rourke’s “Retribution” offers a neutral point of view on the conflict. It delves into the historical perspective that contributed to the Israel-Palestine conflict. The book illuminates the dynamics fueling ongoing tensions by digging into the events that have transformed the region.
In Rourke’s world, the characters grapple with their desires for quick justice and sustainable peace, inviting readers to contemplate the cyclical nature of the conflict. The moral dilemmas the characters face add depth to the narrative, prompting reflection on the human cost of an unending pursuit of justice.
“Retribution” offers a compelling and enlightening perspective of the Israel-Palestine conflict, urging readers to look beyond media hype and consider the human dimensions of a long-standing struggle. Presenting a balanced view, the book is a valuable contribution to the war literature that emphasizes continuing conversations about peace and justice for a region marked by illegal occupation and atrocities.
If you’re interested in reading Retribution, Order your copy now.
