The conflict between Israel and Palestine is a complex and deeply rooted issue that has generated strife and tension for decades. Within this landscape of violence, crucial themes emerge, including xenophobia and ethnic warfare, which play significant roles in the escalation of conflict and the loss of innocent lives.
Xenophobia: A Driving Force of the Conflict
Xenophobia, defined as the fear or aversion to foreign people or other cultures, has been a driving force in the Israel-Palestine conflict. Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, there has been an influx of Jewish immigrants from various parts of the world, many of whom saw Palestine as their promised land. This massive migration has generated tensions with the native Palestinian population, who saw their lands being taken and their identity threatened.
Ethnic Warfare: The Face of Violence
Ethnic warfare, characterized by conflict between rival ethnic groups, has become a tragic reality for Palestinians under Israeli occupation. History is replete with examples of forced displacements, home demolitions, and restrictions on the freedom of movement imposed on the Palestinian population. These discriminatory and oppressive policies fuel a cycle of violence, perpetuating resentments and hatred between the two groups.
The Devastating Impact on Children
One of the most painful aspects of this conflict is the impact on children. According to UNICEF data, since the beginning of the 21st century, over 2,000 Palestinian children have been killed as a result of violence, and thousands more have been injured or traumatized. These children are innocent victims of a conflict they did not create, but one that profoundly shapes their lives and futures.
The World and Its Omission
Despite the atrocities committed against Palestinians, the world often remains silent or offers only tepid responses to the ongoing violence. This reflects a collective moral failure and a lack of political will to address the deep-seated roots of the conflict and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
Conclusion: Striving for Just and Lasting Peace
To achieve a just and lasting peace in the region, it is imperative to recognize and address the issues of xenophobia and ethnic warfare that fuel the conflict between Israel and Palestine. This requires not only dialogue and political negotiations but also a serious commitment to human rights and equality for all involved. The world can no longer afford to be a passive bystander in the tragedy unfolding in the Holy Land. It is time to act, in solidarity with the victims and in pursuit of true and lasting peace for all people in the region.
Observ@tório de Relações Internacionais - UFOP 