Unpacking Arab outrage over Israel's war on Gaza

Did Hamas truly consider the consequences of its operation?

To avoid being labelled defeatists, we often refrain from questioning whether Hamas leaders considered these concerns before and during the planning and execution of the Al-Aqsa Flood operation.

But can we inquire whether, during their preparations, Hamas made provisions for shelters in Gaza? Was there a plan to secure essential resources like water, food, and fuel to ensure the survival of the Gaza Strip's population, even for a limited period?

Can we hope that the international community, which has shown unprecedented complicity in the face of the injustices suffered by Palestinians, will compel Israel to cease its military operations, ease the blockade on Gaza, and engage in negotiations with Hamas?

Does Hamas have any other goal apart from securing a prisoner exchange?

For decades, it has been widely recognised that the ultimate solution to alleviate Palestinian suffering lies in establishing two states based on the 1967 borders. Unfortunately, extremist Israeli governments have consistently rejected this solution, avoiding its pursuit — a stance echoed by Hamas.

Some individuals believe that the Al-Aqsa Flood operation, which shattered Israel's military image, might force Israel to embrace the two-state solution. However, a pertinent question arises: is Hamas inclined to accept this proposed resolution?

There is frustration towards Egypt for not allowing Palestinians onto its soil and instead delivering aid to Gaza without evacuating its residents. But doesn't the displacement of Gaza's inhabitants align with Israel's longstanding ambition? Hasn't Israel sought to fulfil the dream of relocating these individuals to Sinai and depopulating Gaza?

Arab-on-Arab crimes

Where are those who vowed to liberate Jerusalem and even established a faction known as the Jerusalem Brigade within their ranks?

Why haven't we heard Hamas officials tell them they've let the Palestinians down and, in turn, failed Jerusalem and Palestine?

Did Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas' political bureau, not bestow upon Qasem Soleimani the title of "Martyr of Jerusalem," despite Soleimani committing crimes against Arabs no less severe than those perpetrated by Israel against Palestinians?

What about the Syrian regime and Hezbollah militia, who have essentially replicated Israel's actions against Syrians, all in the name of "fighting Zionism"? Does this Axis content itself with condemning Israel while unleashing sectarian militias that bring death to Arabs?

This, by no means, justifies Israel's actions. It unquestionably amounts to genocide, a crime against all of humanity, not just Gaza. Yet, don't we also have the right to feel anger and ask questions?

Israel's assault on Gaza will eventually end, but what will it leave in its wake? The toll is incalculable – thousands of martyrs, each one not just a statistic but a human life.

If we want the West to value our lives, we must first recognise their worth. It requires an end to calls for death, especially when it mirrors the tragic fate of Gaza's innocent children. They are not mere collateral damage; they represent profound loss and enduring wounds.

This conflict will eventually stop, and those who chant slogans will come to realise who truly benefits from this turmoil. They will see who has exploited our blood to gain control over the fate of the entire region, from Homs to Gaza, boldly asserting, "I am in charge, the decision rests with me, and no solution will prevail unless I am included."

Clearly, this figure doesn't seek fair resolutions for the region's people; they are simply tools in his expansionist pursuits and wars.

Some may believe I should have postponed writing this article for a few weeks out of respect for Palestine, its cause, and its people. However, my unwavering faith in Palestine, its cause, and the Palestinians' right to a just solution drove me to articulate my frustration without ignoring the realities I have witnessed and experienced over the years.

May God protect Palestine and its people, shield Gaza, alleviate its suffering, and protect it from the crimes of Israel and the evil influences of those who trade in blood.