Muhammad Salim al-Awa's Vision: The Al-Aqsa Flood as a Turning Point for Palestine
In a recent interview on the Al-Jazeera program "Al-Muqabla," Egyptian politician and thinker Muhammad Salim al-Awa expressed his belief that the October 7, 2023, attack by the Palestinian resistance marks a significant turning point in the Palestinian cause. He described this operation, dubbed the "Al-Aqsa Flood," as the first step towards the long-awaited liberation of Palestine. Al-Awa emphasized that this attack was unique, as it involved a unified effort from various Palestinian factions, not just Hamas and Islamic Jihad. This collective action, he noted, is a historic first since the 1936 uprising, where the Palestinian resistance took the initiative instead of merely responding to aggression.
Al-Awa's optimism for the future of Palestine is palpable. He stated, "Those who live will see this liberation. If I live and see it, I will be happy. If I die, you will see after me that this was the first step towards liberating Palestine." He acknowledged the tragic human losses resulting from the conflict but framed them within a narrative of martyrdom and spiritual reward, asserting that these sacrifices would ultimately lead to a greater cause.
Critique of Arab Leadership and the Path Forward
Addressing the broader Arab political landscape, Al-Awa criticized the historical stance of Arab governments, which have often relegated the Palestinian issue to a purely Palestinian concern. He expressed disappointment at the backlash against the Palestinian resistance's actions, arguing that they were a necessary response to decades of occupation. Al-Awa also discussed the role of Arab nations in mediating the conflict, particularly Egypt and Qatar, emphasizing that any failures in these efforts stem from the ongoing occupation.
On the topic of the Muslim Brotherhood and Egypt's political history, Al-Awa reflected on the January 25, 2011, revolution, attributing its causes to systemic failures under the Mubarak regime. He shared insights from his meetings with the late President Mohamed Morsi, highlighting the complexities of governance during that turbulent period. Al-Awa believes that the Brotherhood's approach to leadership was flawed and that a more inclusive, non-ideological governance model could have bridged the gap between Mubarak's rule and a more democratic future.
In conclusion, Al-Awa's perspectives underscore a deep-seated hope for the Palestinian cause and a call for introspection within Arab leadership structures. His insights provide a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles for democracy and justice in the region.
