Public Comment

I am writing to express my deep concern about the ongoing second Nakba that is threatening the Palestinian people, as they face the constant threat of expulsion from their homeland. As Palestinians and the United Nations mark the 75th anniversary of the Nakba, it is crucial that we shine a light on the continued suffering endured by Palestinians due to the actions of right-wing Israeli militants and extremists. 

The Nakba, which translates to "catastrophe" in Arabic, refers to the tragic events of 1948 when approximately 700,000 Palestinians were forced to flee from their homes or were violently expelled upon the establishment of Israel. These Palestinians, who sought refuge in neighboring countries or were internally displaced, have experienced displacement and dispossession that has spanned generations. 

What makes the current situation even more alarming is the hermetic sealing of Gaza, where Israeli militants employ Gestapo-like tactics to impose a suffocating blockade on the Palestinian inhabitants. For the past 16 years, Gazans have been subjected to severe restrictions on their basic human rights, including access to essential services, healthcare, education, and freedom of movement. This ongoing collective punishment is causing immense suffering and condemning the people of Gaza to a slow and painful death. 

In addition to the atrocities in Gaza, we cannot ignore the rampant home demolitions perpetrated by Israeli settler terrorists, often with a tacit approval from the Israeli government. These acts of aggression further exacerbate the plight of Palestinians, leaving families homeless and traumatized. The continued expansion of illegal settlements and the destruction of Palestinian homes by these extremist groups undermine any prospects for a just and lasting peace in the region. 

The international community has begun to recognize the gravity of the situation. Amnesty International, among other reputable organizations, has officially labeled the regime imposed by Israel on Palestinians as apartheid. This regime not only treats Palestinians as an inferior racial group but also enforces a system of oppression and domination aimed at creating a Jewish supremacist society. Such a system goes against the principles of justice, equality, and human rights that should be upheld by all nations. 

It is crucial that we raise awareness about the ongoing second Nakba and the violations of human rights faced by Palestinians. The international community must take a stand against the continued displacement, dispossession, and suffering endured by the Palestinian people. We must urge governments, organizations, and individuals to actively support a just and peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, one that upholds the rights and dignity of all individuals involved. 

As we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Nakba, let us renew our commitment to justice and equality for all. The voices of Palestinians must be heard, and their rights must be respected. It is time for the world to unite and work towards a future where Palestinians and Israelis can coexist in peace and security.gh