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Start for freeThe Plight of Palestine and Kashmir: A Tale of Two Occupations
The world has witnessed numerous stories of occupation and resistance, but few are as prolonged and intense as those of Palestine and Kashmir. Both regions have been under military occupation since the 1940s, enduring a saga of colonization that has deeply impacted the lives of their people. This article draws from a conversation with two esteemed guests, Professor Aazia, a political anthropologist, and Professor Nala Abdu, an Arab feminist activist, who shed light on the resistance movements and the daily struggles faced by the people of these occupied lands.
The Historical Context of Palestine
Professor Nala Abdu delves into the history of Palestine, emphasizing the importance of not decontextualizing its present from its long colonial past. The occupation began well before 1948, with Britain facilitating Zionist colonization, leading to the expulsion and genocide of Palestinians. This marked the start of a struggle that has seen Palestinians resisting colonialism for over a century. The recent atrocities committed by Israel in Gaza, including the use of carpet bombing and targeting civilian infrastructure, highlight the ongoing violence and oppression faced by Palestinians.
The Kashmiri Struggle and Solidarity with Palestine
Professor Aazia, drawing from her experience and research, speaks of the Kashmiri struggle and its parallels with Palestine. Kashmiris have historically shown solidarity with Palestinians, seeing their struggle as a metaphor for their own. Despite being under heavy military occupation themselves, Kashmiris have consistently supported Palestine, showcasing a shared resistance against their oppressors. Professor Aazia’s work emphasizes the interconnectedness of these struggles, highlighting the role of neo-imperialism and settler colonialism in both contexts.
The Alliance of Oppressors: India and Israel
The conversation also touches upon the strategic and military alliance between India and Israel, two states that have learned extensively from each other in terms of oppression tactics. This alliance, rooted in a shared ideology of supremacy, has facilitated the exchange of military technology and strategies, further intensifying the occupations of Kashmir and Palestine. This cooperation is a stark reminder of the global dimensions of these struggles, where oppressors join forces to maintain control over the occupied.
The Role of International Institutions
The discussion critically examines the role of international institutions like the United Nations in these occupations. While ostensibly aimed at promoting peace and democracy, these institutions often serve to legitimize and perpetuate the status quo, offering little more than nominal support to the oppressed. The speakers argue for a reevaluation of these institutions’ roles and call for genuine, grassroots solidarity among the oppressed worldwide.
Conclusion
The stories of Palestine and Kashmir are not just tales of occupation but also of resistance, resilience, and solidarity. The conversation underscores the importance of recognizing these struggles' interconnectedness and the need for a united front against oppression. As the world continues to witness these injustices, the voices of Professors Aazia and Nala Abdu remind us of the power of solidarity and the enduring spirit of those fighting for their right to live freely on their lands.
For a deeper understanding of these issues, watch the original discussion on YouTube here.
