Citing crimes against humanity in the current battle with Hamas, the Muslim leaders now demand that Kenya sever ties with Israel and withdraw its envoy. The National Muslim Leaders Forum (NAMLEF) head, Abdullahi Abdi, asked Kenyans to support Palestinians, who he says have been the victims of Israel’s assault for the past decade. At a news conference held at the Jamia Mosque, Sheikh Abdi declared that the Kenyan govt ought to cut its connections with Israel and that the National Assembly ought to petition the Israeli government for the attacks.
Palestinians Support
Not only do Kenyan Muslim communities support the Palestinian people, but there have also been significant demonstrations in favor of the innocent Gazans in the UK. Recently, thousands of people attended a rally in London after police warned that anyone endorsing the militant group Hamas could be arrested. This prompted the Metropolitan Police to deploy 1,000 officers to put an end to rallies and demonstrations across the nation.
Palestine Demonstrations
Following Hamas’ call for a "day of rage," pro-Palestinian demonstrations took place at Columbia University in the United States as well. Hundreds of demonstrators marched through Times Square, Pittsburgh, Portland, and Washington, and numerous rallies were scheduled throughout the weekend in Los Angeles and other cities. Pro-Palestinian rallies have also taken place in other nations, including Turkey, Sweden, Iran, Yemen, Kuwait, Italy, France, Denmark, Netherlands, and Berlin.
The War Escalation
Muslim groups in Kenya referred to the Israeli invasion of Gaza, which was executed as payback for a Hamas strike, as "genocide against Palestinians." The leaders claim that Israel has started an all-out invasion on the Gaza Strip in spite of the fact that over 2.3 million people—including women, children, and the elderly—have been living in the Gaza Strip for the past decade without having access to any external borders.
To put an end to the simmering crisis, the leaders now demand that Al Agsa Mosque, the third-holiest mosque, have its holiness protected at all costs. The leaders further demand that Israel cease all attacks and allow humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip. Moreover, they want an end to the threat of hospital and UN shelter closures, the forced relocation of Palestinian families from their homes, and the restoration of basic supplies like food, fuel, water, and medicine.
The conflict between Israel and Palestine has been a longstanding issue, deeply rooted in historical, political, and religious factors. Whenever tensions escalate and violence erupts, Muslim countries often express strong condemnation and anger towards Israel's actions. To understand the sentiments of Muslim countries towards Israel's actions, it's crucial to delve into the historical background of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The establishment of the state of Israel in 1948 led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, resulting in ongoing conflicts over land, resources, and self-determination. Muslim-majority countries, many of which have large Palestinian populations or historical ties to the region, have been vocal supporters of the Palestinian cause since the conflict's inception.
Religious Significance:
Jerusalem holds immense religious significance for Muslims, Jews, and Christians alike. Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in Jerusalem, is the third holiest site in Islam. When Israeli military actions threaten the sanctity of these religious sites or result in civilian casualties, it evokes strong emotional reactions from Muslims worldwide, including leaders of Muslim-majority countries.
Solidarity with Fellow Muslims:
Muslim countries often express solidarity with the Palestinian people due to shared religious identity and a sense of duty to protect fellow Muslims. The suffering and oppression experienced by Palestinians resonate deeply with Muslims around the world, leading to calls for justice and support for Palestinian rights. This solidarity is often reflected in diplomatic statements, resolutions at international forums, and humanitarian aid provided to Palestinians affected by conflict.
Perceived Injustice and Occupation:
Many Muslim-majority countries view Israel's actions in Palestine as a continuation of colonialism and occupation. The expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied territories, the construction of the separation barrier, and restrictions on Palestinian movement and access to resources are seen as violations of international law and Palestinian rights. Muslim leaders often criticize Israel for its disproportionate use of force and the imposition of collective punishment on the Palestinian population.
Impact on Regional Stability:
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has broader implications for regional stability and security. Escalating tensions and violence in the region can destabilize neighboring countries and exacerbate existing conflicts. Muslim-majority countries, particularly those in the Middle East, are concerned about the spillover effects of the conflict and the potential for radicalization and extremism. They view a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as essential for achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
Political Dynamics:
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is often intertwined with broader geopolitical dynamics, including alliances, rivalries, and power struggles. Muslim-majority countries may align themselves with Palestinian interests as part of their foreign policy objectives or to garner support from their populations. Conversely, some Muslim-majority countries have pursued diplomatic normalization and economic ties with Israel, leading to divisions within the Muslim world and criticism from those who view such actions as a betrayal of the Palestinian cause.
International Law and Human Rights:
Muslim countries, like many in the international community, condemn Israel's actions in Palestine as violations of international law and human rights. The indiscriminate targeting of civilian infrastructure, the use of excessive force against protesters, and the displacement of Palestinian communities are all subjects of scrutiny and condemnation. Muslim-majority countries often advocate for accountability and justice for victims of Israeli military operations through international forums such as the United Nations and the International Criminal Court.
Conclusion:
The anger expressed by Muslim countries when Israel engages in military operations in Palestine is rooted in historical, religious, political, and humanitarian factors. Solidarity with the Palestinian people, concerns about regional stability, and a commitment to upholding international law and human rights shape their responses to the ongoing conflict. Ultimately, a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains elusive, but the voices of Muslim countries play a significant role in advocating for a just and peaceful outcome.