In the wake of the Hamas attacks on October 7, many turned to the works of intellectuals like Edward Said and David Grossman, seeking solace and understanding. This instinct to consult profound thinkers during crises is deeply ingrained. However, as months pass, the words of these great minds seem to pale in comparison to the relentless horror and political stubbornness that perpetuate the conflict.
Raja Shehadeh, a 72-year-old lawyer and peace activist, has long been a voice of reason and hope in the Palestinian struggle. His latest book, “What Does Israel Fear from Palestine?”, marks a significant shift in his tone. Known for his balanced and optimistic writing, Shehadeh now appears to grapple with a growing sense of despair.
Shehadeh’s earlier works, such as “Where the Line Is Drawn,” reflect his enduring hope for reconciliation. This book, which details his 40-year correspondence with an Israeli friend, Henry Abramovitch, exemplifies his belief in the power of personal relationships to bridge divides. It is a testament to his faith that mutual understanding and decency can pave the way for peace.
In “What Does Israel Fear from Palestine?”, Shehadeh divides his narrative into two distinct parts. The first, “How Did We Get Here?”, is an edited version of a talk he gave at a peace conference in Kyoto in 2016. Here, he methodically examines the historical and psychological factors that have shaped Israeli perceptions and policies. He traces the roots of the conflict back to 1948, the year of Israel’s establishment, which Palestinians refer to as the Nakba or “catastrophe.” This event saw the displacement of around 750,000 Palestinians and the loss of their homes, including Shehadeh’s ancestral town of Jaffa.
Shehadeh argues that Israel has since adopted the role of a colonizer, with Gaza becoming an “open-air prison.” He questions why the international community, which played a crucial role in ending apartheid in South Africa, has not exerted similar pressure to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The second part of the book, “The Gaza War 2023-24,” starkly contrasts with the first. Here, Shehadeh’s tone shifts to one of anger and despair as he documents the brutal realities of life in Gaza. He recounts conversations with an unnamed Israeli friend, who deflects every mention of Israeli atrocities by citing Hamas’s actions on October 7. This exchange highlights the deep-seated trauma and unwavering certainty that fuel the ongoing violence.
Shehadeh’s frustration is palpable as he describes the destruction of hospitals, universities, and the staggering human toll. Yet, even amid this darkness, he clings to a glimmer of hope. He posits that the sheer horror of recent events might finally compel the world to seek a comprehensive resolution to the century-old conflict. He envisions a future where a Palestinian state is established, believing that only then can true peace be achieved.
The book concludes with a poignant message of resistance and belief, quoting the late Palestinian poet Refaat Alareer. Shehadeh’s words resonate with a call for recognition of the Palestinian plight and the power of their voices.
Raja Shehadeh’s latest work is a searing reflection on the failures of Israel to treat Palestinians as equals and partners in the pursuit of peace. It underscores the enduring impact of the Nakba and the missed opportunities for reconciliation. Despite the bleakness, Shehadeh’s prose remains graceful and insightful, offering a fresh perspective in a time of great need.
As the conflict continues to unfold, Shehadeh’s call for a comprehensive resolution serves as a reminder of the urgent need for justice and equality. His work challenges readers to confront the harsh realities and to envision a future where peace is not just a distant dream but a tangible possibility.
