What Is The Issue Between Palestine and Israel? Conflict and the Reason

What Is The Issue Between Palestine and Israel? Conflict and the Reason

Jerusalem  often referred to as the 'City of Peace', paradoxically stands at the epicenter of centuries of conflicts, passions, and deep reverence. Nestled within the heartlands of Palestine and claimed as a capital by Israel, this ancient city carries imprints of civilizations and spiritual traditions that have left an indelible mark on its stones and streets.

Central to Jerusalem's religious importance is the Al-Aqsa Mosque. For Muslims, it stands as the third holiest site, associated with Prophet Muhammad's miraculous night journey (Mi'raj). Jews regard the compound as the Temple Mount, the historic location of the two Holy Temples. Christians, while not having direct religious ties to Al-Aqsa itself, revere the city for its integral links to the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

Jerusalem, for many, isn't just a geographical location; it's an emotional and spiritual touchstone that beckons the hearts of billions across the world. In this blog, we'll delve into the intricate layers that make Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa a fulcrum of historical, political, and religious significance.

What Does Palestine Wants?

At its core, Palestine's aspirations resonate deeply with values and history intrinsic to Islam. There's a profound yearning for statehood, highlighted by the emphasis on East Jerusalem — the locale of the revered Al-Aqsa Mosque. Alongside this, is the plea to conclude the Israeli occupation, a matter seen by many Muslims as a pivotal step towards justice. Then, there's the profound sentiment of the right of return for Palestinian refugees, echoing a longing for home and historical rectification. In essence, for many Muslims, Palestine's desires aren't just political; they're deeply spiritual, bound to faith and the search for a dignified existence.

What Does Israel Wants?

From a Jewish viewpoint, Israel stands as both a homeland and a safeguard. The primary aim is security—a safe haven for Jews globally. Israel seeks international recognition of its right to exist and desires peace and stability within its borders. Jerusalem, deeply significant in Judaism, is viewed as its undivided capital. In short, Israel's goals revolve around survival, recognition, and the preservation of Jewish heritage.

How Did Israel Establish?

The narrative of Israel's establishment is often viewed through different lenses, each reflecting diverse historical interpretations and emotional resonances. For many Muslims, the establishment of Israel in 1948 signifies the Nakba, or "catastrophe", marking the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinian Arabs from their ancestral homes. The backdrop to this was the rise of the Zionist movement, which sought a homeland for Jews, particularly in the aftermath of the horrors of World War II and the Holocaust. The British-controlled Mandate of Palestine saw increasing tensions between its Jewish and Arab inhabitants, climaxing with the UN's 1947 partition plan. While Jewish leaders accepted this plan, the Arab leadership did not. Israel's declaration as a state in 1948 led to immediate conflict with its Arab neighbors.

Is Palestine a Country or Part of Israel?

The status of Palestine is one of the most debated issues in international politics. Historically, the region known as Palestine encompassed the territories of present-day Israel and the Palestinian territories (West Bank and Gaza Strip). In 1947, the UN proposed partitioning this area into separate Jewish and Arab states. The next year, Israel declared its independence. While Israel is recognized as a sovereign state, the status of Palestine remains complex. Today, Palestine, comprising the West Bank and Gaza Strip, is recognized by many countries and international bodies as a separate state, but it does not have universally recognized sovereignty. It's not a part of Israel, but its territories are under varying degrees of administrative control by Israel and the Palestinian Authority. The question of Palestine's full statehood remains at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Is Israel Committing a Crime Against Humanity?

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has spanned decades, evoking strong sentiments and concerns from around the globe. For many in the Muslim community, the actions of the Israeli state, especially in the West Bank and Gaza, raise deep questions about human rights violations. There have been accusations from various quarters, including international bodies and rights groups, that Israel has committed crimes against humanity. These allegations primarily revolve around issues like settlements, the blockade of Gaza, and military operations. While Israel defends its actions as necessary for its security, many Muslims perceive these as systemic injustices against the Palestinian people. It's essential for an impartial international community to evaluate these claims to ensure justice and uphold the values of human rights for all.

What Does the Quran Say Against Oppression?

The Quran emphasizes standing with the oppressed, ardently defending justice, and opposing oppression. You can read below some part of Surahs.

وَتَرَى الَّذِينَ ظَلَمُوا مُشْفِقِينَ مِمَّا كَسَبُوا وَهُوَ وَاقِعٌ بِهِمْ

"And you will see those who wronged [by oppressing others] will be fearful of that which they have earned, and it will [certainly] befall them." (Ash-Shu'ara, 26:227)

أَفَأَمِنُوا مَكْرَ اللَّهِ فَلَا يَأْمَنُ مَكْرَ اللَّهِ إِلَّا الْقَوْمُ الْخَاسِرُونَ

"Do they then feel secure from the coming against them of an overwhelming part of the sky or the earth, or from Allah taking vengeance on them from whence they do not perceive?" (An-Nahl, 16:47)

وَإِذَا تَوَلَّىٰ سَعَىٰ فِي الْأَرْضِ لِيُفْسِدَ فِيهَا وَيُهْلِكَ الْحَرْثَ وَالنَّسْلَ ۗ وَاللَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ الْفَسَادَ

"And when he goes away, he strives throughout the land to cause corruption therein and destroy crops and animals. And Allah does not like corruption." (Al-Baqarah, 2:205) 

According to the Quran, Allah will call the oppressors to account when the time comes.

What Does the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Say?

Prophet Muhammad also suggests standing by the oppressed and opposing the oppressor. Everyone, whether they believe in Islam or not, are brothers and sisters. A hadith on this subject acoording to Sahih Bukhari, Book 43, Number 624: Narrated Anas: Allah's Apostle said, "Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is an oppressed one. People asked, "O Allah's Apostle! It is all right to help him if he is oppressed, but how should we help him if he is an oppressor?" The Prophet said, "By preventing him from oppressing others."

As we understand from this hadith; We need to help our brothers who oppress and are oppressed. When we think of it as creation; It would not be wrong to say that everyone is a brother as a human being. For this reason, it would be best to try to prevent the brothers from fighting.

What Should a Muslim Do?

Standing with the Palestinian people, echoing their voices, and expressing outrage against the injustices they face is not only a humanitarian duty but also an Islamic responsibility.

The resistance of Al-Aqsa and Palestine has been a symbol for those seeking justice, freedom, and peace throughout its history. In these lands, emblematic of faith, hope, and solidarity, each of us should have a voice and contribute.

Gift Ideas for Palestinian Neighbour or Friend

As one delves into the rich tapestry of the Middle East, the Palestine Wall Map, which intricately details the geography and history of the region, becomes a pivotal point of reference. This map, often transformed into aesthetic pieces like Palestine Map Wall Art and Palestine Map Wall Decor, serves not only as an educational tool but also a poignant reminder of the region's significance and ongoing struggles.