Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently announced to his nation, “Citizens of Israel, we are at war,” following an unprecedented multi-pronged attack by Hamas, dubbed Operation al-Aqsa Flood. Since then, the situation has escalated dramatically, with at least 232 Palestinians killed and 1,610 wounded in Gaza due to Israeli retaliation, according to Palestinian Ministry of Health figures. [1]
The Hamas operation involved multiple barrages of rockets as well as infiltration of Israeli territory by land, sea, and air.
In response, Israel initiated Operation Iron Swords, involving both air raids and ground fighting.
Global alarm
The situation has undoubtedly caused international concern, with the United Nations Special Co-ordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, condemning the violence and calling for immediate restraint to protect civilians.
Hamas and other resistance groups have called on supporters to join the fight, stating that they are on the verge of a “great victory”. [2]
Deadly clashes were precursor to today’s critical stage
The escalation comes after months of increasing tensions and deadly clashes along the Israel-Gaza border and in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
In a direct message to Arab nations including the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and others, the leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, announced that Israel cannot provide them with protection, despite recent diplomatic rapprochements.
Haniyeh warned his “Arab brothers” in the following terms,
“We say to all countries, including our Arab brothers, that this entity, which cannot protect itself in the face of resistors, cannot provide you with any protection.
“All the normalisation agreements that you signed with that entity cannot resolve this conflict.” [2]
Haniyeh further proclaimed with optimism,
“We are on the verge of a great victory and a clear conquest on the Gaza front.
“Enough is enough, the cycle of intifādas (uprisings) and revolutions in the battle to liberate our land and our prisoners languishing in occupation (i.e. Israeli) prisons must be completed.” [2]
Analysis
ANALYSIS
This is an urgent and important call upon all Muslims around the world, particularly those in Europe, to make du'ā for our oppressed brothers and sisters in Palestine.
As you may be aware, illegal settlers have been attacking al-Aqsa for the last few weeks, and no-one is taking action. During their attacks, they have been oppressing Palestinians in various locations.
Now, alhamdulillāh, Palestinians — particularly in Gaza — are defending themselves. They have initiated a new tactic to counter the illegal occupation and, alhamdulillāh, they are doing well. That's why we need your du'ā to support them, my dear brothers and sisters.
In addition, we urge you to stay updated with the news and think of various ways to support them, whether politically or through lobbying and media exposure. Be prepared for mass demonstrations to support them. Organisations working to support Muslims globally should mobilise and be ready.
The good news coming from the region makes us optimistic, as Allah has promised victory to those who are oppressed around the world. Our du'ā — and yours — is much needed.
And it is not just about making du'ā; we also need to take action.
Source: Islam21c
Notes