Activists Reflect on the Al-Aqsa Flood: A Year Later
On the first anniversary of Operation Flood of Al-Aqsa, activists from across the Arab and Islamic world gathered to reflect on the significance of the events that unfolded on October 7, 2023. Despite the devastating human toll, with over 42,000 lives lost and extensive destruction in Gaza, these activists see the operation as a pivotal moment in the struggle against Israeli occupation. Abdel Samad Fathi, head of the Moroccan Committee for Supporting the Issues of the Nation, described it as a 'victory for the dignity of a people' who have long been oppressed. He emphasized that the operation broke the 'myth of the invincible army,' restoring hope and pride to the Palestinian people.
The Al-Aqsa Flood has been characterized as more than just a conflict; it is viewed as a revealing moment that highlights the necessity for collective efforts across the Arab world to address the Palestinian issue. Professor Muhammad Affan pointed out that the conflict extends beyond Gaza, indicating a broader struggle against colonialism and injustice worldwide. The war has galvanized support for Palestine, drawing parallels to other global movements against colonial oppression.
Activists also noted the emergence of new strategies, such as boycotting Israeli products, as effective means of supporting the Palestinian cause. Asim Khalifa, a Sudanese activist, emphasized the importance of raising awareness among younger generations about the realities of the Palestinian struggle and the need to resist normalization efforts with Israel.
In the wake of the Al-Aqsa Flood, there has been a profound transformation in the Arab region. Bashir Khadri, Executive Director of the Palestine Supporters Association in Tunisia, remarked that the operation has revitalized the Palestinian cause, which had been overshadowed by normalization efforts in some Arab nations. He likened the flood to a 'lantern on a dark night' that has illuminated the plight of the Palestinian people.
Finally, Mustafa Senian from Senegal's National Alliance to Support Palestine urged Arab governments to take responsibility for their inaction regarding the suffering in Gaza. He called for unity among the Palestinian people, stressing that only through solidarity can they achieve victory and establish a free, independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.
