Israel is a Middle Eastern state that has long been associated with certain behaviors, including self-victimization and a tendency to credit its failures to others. These traits have been a point of controversy in international discourse, and it’s crucial to explore their implications in our interconnected world.
In today’s age of global connectivity, it’s essential to recognize the role of media in shaping perceptions. Western media is often accused of bias and deception which plays a vital role in shaping the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This media influence has not only stirred debates but also formed divisions between communities worldwide especially in the United States.
Perhaps the most surprising factor is the multifaceted support Israel receives from both the Global South and major world powers. This wide range of backing raises questions about global connectivity and the complex web of international relations.
Beneath the oratory and media portrayals lies a deeper reality which is that Israel’s policies and actions have been a subject of global analysis. Accusations of oppression, violation of international law, and rules of war particularly regarding the allotment of Palestinian lands have triggered interconnected outcomes.
One of Israel’s notable strategies is its traditional habit of shifting blame onto others, often Palestinian armed groups. This approach by Israel seeks to shift attention from its actions, an issue that’s intensified in our interconnected world.
A recent horrible incident exemplifying this blame politics is the bomb blast at Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza on Oct. 17, which led to a substantial loss of life, about 500 Palestinians killed. The hospital served as a sanctuary for countless Palestinian children, patients, and pregnant women who unfortunately became victims.
Israel as is its persistent habit credited this incident to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) group which is a close ally of Hamas. This tactic serves to obscure the true culprits, further complicating narratives in our interconnected global community.
By analyzing the evidence presented by the Israeli government, doubts emerge about its authenticity and validity. Suspicious tweets, like the one by Hananya Naftali who is a close aide to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have raised questions. Such suspicious actions further complicate our understanding of the situation.
Additionally, before the tragic Oct. 17 blast, Al-Ahli Hospital was hit by another bomb on Oct. 14 which resulted in injuring several (about 4) hospital staff members. It was seen as a warning by Israeli forces for evacuation, but the people chose to stay which led to further tragic consequences.
The extent of destruction raises doubts about the capacity of Palestinian armed groups to cause such devastation. In comparison, Israeli forces which equipped and trained with advanced technology are more likely responsible for such devastating events.
Hamas or PIJ would have little to gain from harming their people, while Israeli forces have a history of carrying out measures that affect Palestinians across the board.
Another incident that underscores this blame politics is the killing of Shireen Abu Akleh, a Palestinian-American journalist for Al Jazeera. Shireen was targeted by an Israeli soldier while reporting on Israeli activities in the Jenin refugee camp in May 2022.
Initially, the Israeli government denied any involvement in her death, but after the independent investigations revealed that the Israeli soldier intentionally shot the poor journalist, the Israeli military claimed the act was unintentional and did not pursue a criminal investigation.
The use of the blame politics by Israel is a complex strategy. It’s often carried out when substantial attention is drawn to its actions as it swiftly changes its narrative to shift focus onto accused parties, especially Palestinian armed groups. This creates mixed narratives and confusion, and with media propaganda it prevents victims from receiving the justice they deserve.
Israel has cleverly created a narrative of being the “Victim” in the international community. When this narrative is challenged, it resorts to its persistent blame game tactics. Israel understands that the intensity of public attention and protests fades over time which allows it to avoid accountability, further complicating the situation.
In conclusion, the famous saying by William E. Gladstone “Justice delayed is justice denied” is particularly applicable in the case of Palestine. Even when evidence of Israeli involvement in war crimes or the intentional killing of Palestinians is revealed justice remains difficult to achieve for the Palestinians.
The persistence of this blame politics has a widespread impact. It prolongs a cycle of violence and suffering in the region and prevents the prospects of a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As we delve deeper into this issue, it’s important to recognize the power of narratives and the media’s role in shaping public opinions. The role of Western media in influencing how the world views this conflict cannot be ignored. The biases and deceptions have raised questions about the responsibility of the media in promoting a more balanced understanding of the situation.
The international community also bears a responsibility. The diverse support for Israel highlights the complexity and biases of international relations and the need for a more fair approach. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it’s crucial to question the alliances and decisions made by nations in the name of geopolitics.
The blame politics while a strategy used by Israel is not new to this conflict. It’s a common tactic used by many nations facing scrutiny. However, its impact on the lives of ordinary people is significant, and the consequences are often severe.
As we reflect on these complexities, we must also consider the human cost. Innocent lives, like those lost at Al-Ahli Hospital, are the real victims of this blame politics. It’s essential to prioritize their well-being and seek solutions that bring an end to their suffering.
Opinions expressed in this article are those of the author.