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Yousef Alhelou

London, United Kingdom
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About Yousef
Journalist, correspondent, political analyst, commentator.
TV, Radio, online 
Specialist in Palestinian-Israeli affairs as well as European and Middle Eastern affairs
Languages
English
Services
Video Package (Web / Broadcast) Audio package (Radio / Podcast) Interview (Video / Broadcast)
+10
Skills
Fact Checking
Portfolio

Will 2019 see an end to the Hamas-Fatah divide?

03 Oct 2024  |  thearabweekly.com
The article discusses the ongoing tensions between Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah, exacerbated by a recent attack on the Palestinian Broadcasting Corporation. Accusations fly between the two groups, with Fatah blaming Hamas for the attack and Hamas alleging involvement of former Fatah members. The divide has led to operational challenges at the Rafah border crossing and increased suffering for Gaza's residents. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's dissolution of the legislative council has further strained relations, with Hamas rejecting the move. The article highlights the broader implications of these tensions, including the impact on Israeli-Palestinian relations and the challenges of achieving Palestinian national unity.

Israel’s appropriation of Palestinian food

11 Aug 2024  |  thearabweekly.com
Palestinian restaurant owners abroad emphasize their cultural heritage through decor and cuisine, countering Israeli attempts to appropriate Palestinian dishes. The article highlights the deep connection between Palestinian food and national identity, criticizing the labeling of traditional Palestinian dishes like hummus, falafel, and shakshuka as Israeli. It underscores the cultural significance of these foods and the broader implications of cultural appropriation on Palestinian identity.

Twitter spats replace Mideast peace talks

12 Apr 2024  |  thearabweekly.com
US President Donald Trump's influence has shifted Middle East diplomatic interactions to Twitter, where US, Israeli, and Palestinian officials engage in public relations warfare rather than secret peace talks. The Palestinian leadership cut ties with Washington following Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Twitter has since been the main channel for communication, with officials exchanging accusations and positions. Palestinian officials, including Saeb Erekat and Hanan Ashrawi, have been vocal in their criticism of US policies and the upcoming Bahrain conference on Palestinian economy, which they plan to boycott. Israeli officials, such as Deputy Defence Minister Eli Ben-Dahan, have supported US decisions and criticized Palestinian actions. This digital diplomacy is a new phenomenon that has arisen during Trump's presidency.

What are Israel’s motives for arresting Palestinian Jerusalem governor?

02 Oct 2023  |  thearabweekly.com
Adnan Ghaith, the Palestinian governor of Jerusalem, was released from Israeli detention under house arrest conditions. His arrest, along with other Palestinians, is linked to suspicions of involvement with the Palestinian Authority (PA) and a controversial land sale. The PA condemned the arrests, viewing them as pressure tactics by Israel. The situation underscores the ongoing tensions over Jerusalem's status, with Israel asserting control and Palestinians seeking sovereignty over East Jerusalem.

Palestinians wary of proposal that criminalises filming of Israeli soldiers

01 Oct 2023  |  thearabweekly.com
Palestinians and human rights activists express concern over a proposed Israeli law that would criminalize filming Israeli soldiers, fearing it would hinder documentation of potential crimes. The bill, introduced after the killing of Palestinian protesters, is seen as a move to suppress media freedom and protect soldiers from accountability. Palestinian journalists and organizations like the Palestinian Journalists’ Syndicate and the International Federation of Journalists have condemned the proposal, urging international bodies to protect press freedom. The bill is backed by Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman and proposed by Robert Ilatov of the Yisrael Beiteinu party.

Palestinian online campaign bids to counter Israeli narrative

01 Oct 2023  |  thearabweekly.com
Palestinian activists are leveraging social media to counter Israeli narratives and media bias, particularly through the 'Ihbid' campaign. This digital movement, led by figures like Ameen A’abed and Hassan al-Dawood, aims to dispel misinformation and promote the Palestinian perspective. The campaign has garnered significant online support and engages in non-abusive, informative discussions. Activists face challenges, including social media account suspensions and threats, but remain committed to their cause. The text criticizes the Israeli military and Western media for biased coverage and highlights the role of technology in empowering Palestinian voices.

Does the Palestinian cause still matter to Arabs and Muslims?

01 Oct 2023  |  thearabweekly.com
The article discusses the declining priority of the Palestinian cause in the Arab world due to internal Palestinian divisions, regional conflicts, and shifting alliances. It highlights the impact of US policies under Donald Trump, which have weakened the Palestinian Authority, and the role of Israel in exploiting regional instability. The article calls for a unified Palestinian front to regain support from Arab and Muslim allies, emphasizing that abandoning the Palestinian cause without a just solution will not lead to regional stability.

Sumud: Palestinians' form of steadfastness continues to grow stronger

01 Oct 2023  |  The New Arab
Sumud, meaning resilience in Arabic, symbolizes the enduring spirit of Palestinian resistance against Israeli occupation and colonization since the 1967 war. Despite decades of atrocities, Palestinians maintain their national identity and right of return. The concept of Sumud is deeply rooted in Palestinian culture, exemplified by acts of defiance, digital media preservation, and symbols like the olive tree. The text highlights the ongoing struggles in Gaza and the West Bank, including house demolitions and evictions, and criticizes international actions that undermine Palestinian rights. Despite despair, the spirit of Sumud persists, embodying resistance against submission and injustice.

Solving Gaza’s problems would reduce tensions in the West Bank

01 Oct 2023  |  thearabweekly.com
Recent mass demonstrations in the West Bank, calling for the lifting of sanctions on Gaza, highlight a strong desire for Palestinian national unity. Palestinian Authority (PA) security forces cracked down on protesters, leading to arrests and injuries. The sanctions, ordered by President Mahmoud Abbas, have worsened Gaza's humanitarian situation. Activists and rights groups condemned the violence, while senior PA officials downplayed the sanctions as administrative measures. The protests have gained international momentum, with sit-ins in Lebanon and the UK. The article emphasizes that Palestinian unity is essential to face Israeli occupation and US pressure, and that lifting sanctions on Gaza would reduce tensions in the West Bank.

Hamas under fire for failed policies, toxic rhetoric

01 Oct 2023  |  thearabweekly.com
Palestinians in Gaza express growing frustration with Hamas for failing to alleviate their suffering under the Israeli siege. Criticism includes Hamas's prioritization of loyalists for aid and jobs, lack of accountability, and failure to reconcile with Fatah. The movement's image is further tarnished by senior official Fathi Hammad's incendiary rhetoric against Jews, condemned by Palestinian leaders and activists. The article highlights the dire living conditions in Gaza, mass migration, and the challenges faced by those trying to leave. Hamas's refusal to concede power and allow elections exacerbates the situation.

Iceland’s solidarity with Palestinians unshaken since independence recognition

01 Oct 2023  |  thearabweekly.com
Iceland has maintained strong solidarity with the Palestinian people since recognizing Palestine as an independent state in 2011. The Icelandic-Palestinian Friendship Association, established in 1987, continues to raise awareness and support for the Palestinian cause through various activities and events. Iceland's support for Palestine is evident in its diplomatic actions and the involvement of its citizens in solidarity efforts. The article highlights the contributions of individuals like Silja Palmadotti and Salman al-Tamimi in promoting Palestinian rights and cultural heritage.

Is Israel transforming the Palestinian issue into religious conflict?

01 Oct 2023  |  thearabweekly.com
The article discusses the recent tensions in Jerusalem, particularly around the al-Aqsa Mosque, where Israeli settlers attempted to storm the site during Eid al-Adha. It highlights the ongoing provocations by Israeli settlers and occupation forces, the historical and religious significance of the site, and the broader political implications. The article criticizes Israeli actions and policies, suggesting that Israel is transforming the political conflict into a religious one. It also mentions the role of various organizations and figures, including the Palestine Liberation Organisation, Hamas, and the Jerusalem Islamic Waqf, in responding to these provocations.

Israel and the UAE collude to silence a Palestinian singer

15 Oct 2020  |  Muslims in Italy struggle to bury victims of the pandemic
Mohammed Assaf, a Palestinian singer and Arab Idol winner, has been banned by Israel from entering the West Bank due to his calls for resistance against Israeli occupation. The Israeli government, in collaboration with the UAE, is attempting to curb Assaf's influence by preventing his performances and removing his content from platforms like MBC's YouTube channel. Palestinian officials and activists have condemned these actions as attempts to silence Palestinian voices and undermine their cultural identity. Despite these efforts, Assaf remains a symbol of resistance and inspiration for many in the Arab world.

Why do Palestinians not pin their hopes on the Arab League?

15 Oct 2020  |  Middle East Monitor
The State of Palestine has abandoned its chairmanship of the Arab League in response to the normalization of relations between Israel and the UAE and Bahrain. This move reflects widespread frustration among Palestinians with the Arab League, which they view as ineffective and influenced by external powers, particularly the US. The article highlights the historical context of the Arab League, its perceived failures, and the disillusionment of Palestinians with the organization's ability to defend their rights. Calls for a new, stronger body to support oppressed nations in the region are also discussed.

Will the BDS boycott call against NasDaily succeed?

30 Sep 2020  |  Muslims in Italy struggle to bury victims of the pandemic
The Palestinian BDS movement has called for a boycott of Nuseir Yassin, also known as Nas Daily, due to his perceived normalization of the UAE-Israel deal. The call has led some, like Palestinian media activist Israa Elshareef, to withdraw from NasDaily Academy. Nas Daily, who has a significant social media following, has responded by criticizing his detractors. The article highlights his background, his collaborations with various governments, and the mixed reactions to his content. Khalid Safi, a Palestinian social media expert, suggests that the boycott might inadvertently increase Nas's popularity.

Why besieged Gaza is a ticking time bomb

18 Aug 2020  |  middleeastmonitor.com
Gaza, under Hamas control since 2007, has been experiencing Israeli military actions, including air strikes and naval attacks, as a response to incendiary balloons released by Palestinian activists. These balloons have caused significant damage to Israeli agriculture. Palestinians view these actions as non-violent resistance, aiming to pressure Israel to lift the siege imposed since 2006. The blockade has severely impacted life and the economy in Gaza, leading to power outages and restricted access to resources. Egypt is mediating to convey Gaza's demands to Israel, which include lifting the siege and improving services. Despite threats from Israeli officials like Defence Minister Benny Gantz, the article suggests that Gazans have nothing to lose due to the unbearable conditions of the 14-year siege.

Palestine: UAE-Israel normalisation deal, a stab in the back and a betrayal to Jerusalem

16 Aug 2020  |  Middle East Monitor
The US-brokered UAE-Israel normalisation deal, which includes cooperation in various sectors and the suspension of Israel's annexation plans in the West Bank, has been met with strong condemnation from Palestinian factions and leaders. They view the agreement as a betrayal and a blow to the Palestinian cause, arguing it whitewashes Israel's occupation and human rights violations. Demonstrations erupted in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem, while the Palestinian Authority called for an emergency session of the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to reject the deal. The article highlights the contrasting reactions from other Middle Eastern countries, with Oman and Egypt welcoming the agreement, while Turkey and Iran condemned it. The future political dynamics between the Palestinian Authority and the UAE, particularly concerning former Fatah leader Mohammad Dahlan, remain uncertain.

Another Palestinian political prisoner dies in Israeli prison due to deliberate medical negligence

10 Jul 2020  |  Middle East Monitor
Saadi Al-Gharably, a 75-year-old Palestinian political prisoner, died in Israeli custody due to alleged medical negligence, marking the 233rd such death since 1967. Despite his family's appeals, he remained detained even posthumously for an autopsy. Al-Gharably, convicted in 1994 for killing an Israeli officer, spent 27 years in prison, including 12 in solitary confinement. Human rights organizations document the policy of medical neglect in Israeli prisons, where 4,700 Palestinian prisoners, including 160 children and 41 women, are held. Some prisoners suffer from chronic diseases and lack adequate medical care. The issue of prisoner treatment and body detention by Israel is contentious, with implications for potential prisoner swap deals with Hamas. International bodies are urged to intervene and advocate for the health and release of political prisoners.

Johnson's diplomatic advice to Netanyahu and the UK's stance on Hong Kong and Palestine

04 Jul 2020  |  www.middleeastmonitor.com
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's diplomatic advice to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may have contributed to the halt of the annexation of parts of the Palestinian West Bank. Johnson, a self-proclaimed defender of Israel, published an op-ed in Yedioth Ahronoth, urging against annexation and warning of jeopardizing progress with Arab and Muslim countries. He also referenced concerns by UAE Ambassador Yousef Al-Otaiba. The article draws parallels between the UK's historical colonialism in Palestine and its stance on human rights violations in Hong Kong, suggesting Britain should offer Palestinians similar settlement rights as offered to Hong Kong residents. The author argues that Britain bears responsibility for Palestinian suffering and instability in the region, stemming from the Balfour Declaration and subsequent actions.

Is the PA serious about cutting all ties with Israel?

09 Jun 2020  |  Middle East Monitor
The article examines the Palestinian Authority's (PA) announcement to cut ties with Israel, questioning the feasibility and sincerity of such a move. It highlights the potential consequences, including the impact on PA institutions and security coordination, and the skepticism among Palestinians about the PA's commitment to this decision. The article also discusses the broader geopolitical implications, including the upcoming Israeli annexation plans and the role of international bodies. Despite the PA's declarations, practical coordination with Israel continues, and the article suggests that the PA's actions may still align with Israeli interests.

Is a Hamas-Israel prisoner swap deal imminent?

16 May 2020  |  Middle East Monitor
Egyptian-mediated discussions have been triggered by concerns over Palestinian political prisoners in Israeli jails contracting COVID-19, aiming to secure a prisoner swap deal between Israel and Hamas-ruled Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing political pressure, sees this as an opportunity to strengthen his leadership image. The proposed deal involves a two-step process, with the first step potentially releasing elderly and chronically-ill Palestinian prisoners in exchange for two Israeli civilians held by Hamas, and the second step involving the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners for the return of two missing Israeli soldiers. The deal is seen as imminent and could be part of a larger package leading to a long-term truce and improved conditions in Gaza.

Palestine is still my cause, but is it yours?

28 Apr 2020  |  middleeastmonitor.com
A controversy has arisen over Saudi-run MBC's TV programming, which Palestinians perceive as promoting normalization with Israel and disrespecting the Palestinian cause. The comedy show 'Makhraj 7' and the drama 'Um Haroun' have been particularly criticized for their content. The issue has sparked heated debates on social media, with hashtags #BoycottMBC, #PalestineIsNotMyCause, and #PalestineIsMyCause trending. The Palestinian Authority has called for mutual respect, while critics argue that such media content aids Israeli propaganda efforts and contributes to internal Palestinian divisions. The incidents reflect a broader cooling of relations between Saudi Arabia and the Palestinian leadership, amidst a growing trend of normalization with Israel in the region.

Social media is a bridge for Palestinians with no freedom of movement

14 Feb 2020  |  Muslims in Italy struggle to bury victims of the pandemic
Palestinians face severe movement restrictions due to Israeli control over ID cards and border crossings, impacting their social lives and opportunities. Social media has become a crucial tool for Palestinians to connect and find love, as physical movement is heavily restricted. The Israeli siege and control are seen as strategies to fragment the Palestinian population and limit their growth. The article highlights the bureaucratic challenges and risks involved in traveling, especially for those without Israel-approved ID cards, and the broader implications of these policies on Palestinian life and identity.

Palestinians welcome UN's blacklisting of companies operating in settlements

12 Feb 2020  |  The New Arab
The UN Human Rights Council published a blacklist of companies operating in Israeli settlements, including Airbnb, Expedia, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, and Coca Cola. The report, delayed due to Israeli and American pressure, was welcomed by Palestinians and human rights groups as a step towards accountability and international law. Israeli and US officials condemned the report, describing it as anti-Israeli. The publication is seen as a symbolic victory for Palestinians, highlighting the illegality of settlements under international law and calling for companies to cease operations in these areas.

Can Palestinians resist American and Israeli dictation?

28 Jan 2020  |  The New Arab
US President Donald Trump announced the 'Deal of the Century' Middle East Peace Plan, which aims to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict but is seen as heavily favoring Israel. The plan, developed by Jared Kushner, was not consulted with Palestinians and includes controversial terms such as recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and annexing the Jordan Valley. Palestinian leaders, including President Mahmoud Abbas, have rejected the plan, calling it a dictation and threatening serious consequences. The plan has been met with apathy and mockery by Palestinians, who are frustrated by years of internal division and abandonment by Arab regimes.

UK explores new markets in Africa to replace EU

20 Jan 2020  |  The New Arab
The UK is seeking new trade and investment opportunities in Africa following Brexit, highlighted by the UK-Africa Investment Summit. The summit, attended by representatives from 21 African states and key UK officials, aimed to establish new economic partnerships. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson emphasized the UK's openness for business in Africa, while Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called for increased British investment in Egypt. The event faced criticism from human rights activists due to Sisi's participation, highlighting ongoing concerns about human rights violations in Egypt. The summit concluded with significant investment deals, marking a step towards stronger UK-Africa relations.

Palestinians denied drilling rights in Mediterranean gas fields

17 Jan 2020  |  The New Arab
Israel has become a key player in the Middle East gas market, supplying natural gas to Egypt and Jordan. However, Palestinians are denied the right to drill and extract gas from the Gaza Marine field due to geopolitical complexities and the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. The field, discovered in 1999, remains undeveloped, forcing Palestinians to rely on Israeli energy. Internal Palestinian political rifts and Israel's blockade of Gaza further complicate the situation. The article criticizes Israel's policies and highlights the potential benefits for Palestinians if they were allowed to exploit their natural resources.

Is Palestine's national election possible?

01 Jan 2020  |  The New Arab
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called for general elections in the occupied Palestinian territories, including Jerusalem, which was unexpectedly accepted by Hamas with conditions. Despite the call for national reconciliation dialogue by various factions, Abbas refused, fearing it might create new disagreements. The last legislative elections were held in 2006, and Abbas's term expired in 2009 but was extended indefinitely by the PLO. The political deadlock led to the dissolution of parliament in 2018. International pressure is mounting on the Palestinian Authority to hold elections to regain legitimacy. The Israeli occupation is seen as a potential obstacle, particularly in East Jerusalem. The Gaza Strip remains under siege, and the West Bank faces challenges from the Trump administration's policies. The situation remains uncertain, with both factions needing to unite to face challenges and ensure transparent elections.

Some Palestinians in Gaza are forced to start marriage via social media

16 Dec 2019  |  Middle East Monitor
The ongoing Israeli blockade and travel restrictions in Gaza have forced many Palestinians to start their marriages via social media. The Rafah Border Crossing into Egypt, often closed, is Gaza's main link to the outside world. Palestinians without Israeli-approved ID cards face significant travel challenges, impacting their social and personal lives. The article highlights the difficulties faced by Palestinians in maintaining relationships and the broader implications of the Israeli-led siege on Gaza.

Wave of international support for Palestinian photojournalist shot in the eye

20 Nov 2019  |  thearabweekly.com
Freelance Palestinian photojournalist Muaaz Amarneh was injured by a rubber-coated bullet fired by Israeli forces while covering protests in the West Bank. The incident sparked a wave of international solidarity, with journalists and activists expressing support through social media campaigns and protests. The International Federation of Journalists and the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate condemned the attack, calling for international action to protect journalists. The article highlights ongoing violence against Palestinian journalists, including previous injuries and fatalities, and calls for the UN to adopt measures to ensure their safety.

Doubts surround efforts towards holding Palestinian general elections

15 Nov 2019  |  thearabweekly.com
Efforts to organize general elections in the Palestinian territories are ongoing, with the Palestinian Authority’s Central Election Committee, led by Hanna Nasser, engaging with various factions including Hamas. Despite initial progress, a memo from President Mahmoud Abbas outlining preconditions for Hamas has dampened optimism. Both Fatah and Hamas accuse each other of obstructing the elections, with concerns about potential Israeli interference. The United Nations has expressed readiness to support the elections, but deep mistrust and unresolved issues between the factions pose significant challenges. Analysts remain skeptical about either side winning a majority, emphasizing the need for unity and respect for election results.

Attacks against Gaza’s resistance are Netanyahu’s way to cover up his failures

12 Nov 2019  |  Middle East Monitor
Israel's assassination of Palestinian Islamic Jihad commander Bahaa Abu Al-Ata and the failed attempt on Akram Al-Ajoury have escalated tensions in Gaza, leading to retaliatory strikes and further violence. The article argues that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's actions are driven by domestic political motives, including his failure to form a new government and his desire to avoid prosecution on corruption charges. Various Palestinian factions, including Hamas and the Palestine Liberation Organisation, have condemned the assassinations and vowed retaliation. The situation remains volatile, with potential for further escalation.

Israel hopes to dictate rules of engagement with Gaza offensive

12 Nov 2019  |  thearabweekly.com
Israel's assassination of Islamic Jihad commander Bahaa Abu Al-Atta in Gaza led to fierce retaliation, with Islamic Jihad firing rockets into Israel and vowing further revenge. Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu approved the targeted killing, and Israeli officials warned Hamas against retaliation. An Egyptian-mediated truce was attempted, but its success remains uncertain. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and destruction, with both sides showing no clear desire for a full-scale war. The situation is further complicated by internal Israeli politics, with Netanyahu under pressure and his rival Benny Gantz attempting to form a government.

Palestinian in leaked Israeli shooting video tells of ordeal

11 Nov 2019  |  newarab.com
A video showing Israeli police shooting a Palestinian man, Karam al-Qawasmi, in the back while he walked away with his hands raised at Al-Zaeim checkpoint outside Jerusalem sparked outrage. The May 2018 incident was filmed by an officer and later leaked, leading to the Israeli justice ministry considering charges against the female officer who shot al-Qawasmi. The victim recounted his ordeal, describing cruel treatment and fearing for his life. The PLO and Palestinian Journalists Syndicate have called for UN action and investigations, respectively. Israeli human rights group B’Tselem cited a culture of impunity among Israeli security forces. The incident has renewed attention on the excessive force used against Palestinians in the occupied territories.

Is Netflix taking part in Israel's propaganda campaign?

04 Oct 2019  |  newarab.com
The article discusses the perceived absence of pro-Palestine films on Netflix and suggests that the platform may be participating in Israeli propaganda efforts. It highlights the asymmetry in cultural representation between Israelis and Palestinians in media, with a focus on the portrayal of Palestinians and Arabs in Hollywood and on Netflix. The article questions the reluctance of Western or Arab film directors to produce pro-Palestine content and whether platforms like Netflix would allow such content. It also touches on the challenges Palestinian filmmakers face, such as funding and meeting Western content standards. The article includes perspectives from Palestinian director Khalil al-Muzayyen and academic Adnan Abu Amer, who discuss the commercial nature of Netflix and the difficulties of promoting the Palestinian narrative within the current media landscape.

Israel’s demolition of Palestinian homes undermines prospects for peace

22 Jul 2019  |  thearabweekly.com
The article discusses the forceful eviction and demolition of Palestinian homes in the village of Wadi al-Hummus, highlighting the involvement of Israeli soldiers and police officers. It criticizes the Israeli Supreme Court's ruling that justified the demolitions, describing them as a form of ethnic cleansing and a violation of human rights. The text underscores the lack of international accountability and the ongoing expansion of illegal settlements, arguing that these actions undermine prospects for peace and Palestinian self-determination.

Can an online campaign help preserve the Palestinian narrative?

20 May 2019  |  Muslims in Italy struggle to bury victims of the pandemic
Digital diplomacy is being utilized by Palestinians to counteract the distortion of their narrative, which has been ongoing since the Nakba. The 'Ihbid' campaign, led by the Electronic Army of Habed, aims to challenge misinformation and raise awareness through social media. The campaign has gained traction, especially following recent Israeli offensives, and targets Israeli and pro-Israeli platforms as well as local Palestinian dissenters. The campaigners emphasize non-abusive engagement and have seen some success in influencing online discourse. The article highlights the disparity between Palestinian and Israeli media influence and underscores the importance of digital activism in the Palestinian struggle for justice.

Gazans wary of new Israeli war, continued siege

01 Apr 2019  |  thearabweekly.com
Palestinians in Gaza are concerned about potential escalation between Hamas and Israel, amidst ongoing air strikes and a continued siege. Despite an Egyptian-brokered truce, tensions remain high, with fears of civilian casualties. Gaza residents express frustration with the siege and the harsh living conditions, calling for its end. Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu faces criticism for his handling of the conflict as he campaigns for re-election. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is exacerbated by the blockade, with over 200 Palestinian protesters killed in the past year. Egyptian mediation efforts are appreciated but seen as insufficient.

Is Gaza a scapegoat for Netanyahu’s election campaign

19 Mar 2019  |  Muslims in Italy struggle to bury victims of the pandemic
Israel retaliated with massive strikes on Gaza after two rockets were fired into Tel Aviv, despite Hamas and Islamic Jihad denying responsibility. The incident has heightened tensions ahead of Israel's general elections, with Netanyahu facing pressure to respond decisively while avoiding escalation. The fragile truce between Israel and Gaza remains under strain, with both sides showing reluctance to escalate further. The article explores the political implications for Netanyahu, the role of Hamas, and the broader context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Gaza ‘We Want to Live’ protests rattle Hamas

17 Mar 2019  |  thearabweekly.com
Mass protests in Gaza against Hamas's economic policies have led to a violent crackdown by Hamas security forces, resulting in injuries, arrests, and widespread condemnation from local and international rights groups. The protests, driven by the 'We Want to Live' movement, highlight severe economic and humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Hamas accuses Fatah and Israeli intelligence of instigating the unrest, while protesters demand better living conditions and political change. International bodies like the UN and Amnesty International have called for investigations into the excessive use of force by Hamas.

Even in peace, a war of wits continues between Israel and Hamas

30 Jan 2019  |  Even in peace, a war of wits continues between Israel and Hamas
Hamas, governing Gaza since 2007, prioritizes combating Israeli espionage, particularly the recruitment of informants. Despite amnesty and rehabilitation programs, the threat of informants remains. Israel uses various means, including blackmail, to recruit spies. Human rights organizations have raised concerns about the treatment of alleged informants by Gaza's interior ministry. A significant Israeli intelligence operation was foiled by Hamas in KhanYounis, leading to political repercussions in Israel. The ongoing intelligence war between Israel and Hamas persists, with Hamas facing technological disadvantages but continuing its anti-espionage efforts.

Hamdallah’s resignation reflects Palestinian divisions

30 Jan 2019  |  thearabweekly.com
The resignation of Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah has intensified tensions between Fatah and Hamas, highlighting long-standing divisions. The move aims to form a new government excluding Hamas, as recommended by the Fatah Central Committee. Hamdallah, serving as caretaker prime minister, has been pivotal in reconciliation efforts. Fatah's goal is to advance towards parliamentary elections and address challenges posed by Israeli-US policies. Hamas, however, views the formation of a new government as illegitimate without national consensus. The ongoing discord threatens to deepen the split between the West Bank and Gaza, with Abbas seeking to reassert control over Palestinian politics and Gaza. The situation underscores the need for Palestinian unity in the face of external pressures from Israel and the United States.

Israeli censorship generates an increasingly counterproductive reaction

15 Jan 2019  |  www.monitordeoriente.com
Israel faces increasing challenges in maintaining its global image, with its propaganda efforts proving counterproductive. The BDS movement gains traction despite significant financial opposition from pro-Israel groups like the Anti-Defamation League and The Israel Project. The influence of AIPAC is waning, particularly with the rise of progressive Democrats like Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders. Anti-BDS laws, especially in the US, are seen as undemocratic and have sparked backlash, further eroding support for Israel.

When Che went to Gaza

04 Dec 2018  |  The New Arab
The article discusses the historical context of the Palestinian struggle against Israeli colonization, highlighting key events such as the Nakba and Naksa. It details the revolutionary spirit in Egypt under Gamal Abdel Nasser and the influence of global guerrilla movements on Palestinian fighters. The narrative focuses on Che Guevara's visit to Gaza in 1959, his support for Palestinian liberation, and the inspiration drawn from his revolutionary ideas. The text underscores the ongoing plight of Palestinian refugees and the enduring dream of the right of return.

Palestine. It's about injustice, not religion

19 Dec 2017  |  العربي الجديد
The article discusses the role of social media in documenting and sharing the experiences of Palestinians under Israeli occupation, particularly during the recent protests in Jerusalem. It highlights the case of Fawzi al-Junadi and Ibrahim Abu Thuraya, whose images became viral symbols of Palestinian resistance. The author, Yousef Alhelou, emphasizes the importance of social media platforms in allowing Palestinians to make their voices heard internationally, despite attempts by Israeli authorities to suppress and criminalize online Palestinian narratives. The article also touches on the use of social media by citizen journalists and activists to counter biased Western media coverage and the Israeli narrative, and the challenges they face, including digital crackdowns and arrests by Israeli authorities.
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