The Ongoing Struggles of Families in Qalqilya Against Occupation Forces
In Qalqilya, a city in the northern West Bank, the persecution of families connected to resistance fighters has become a harrowing reality. The Israeli General Security Service, known as Shin Bet, has resorted to threatening tactics against the families of martyrs, exemplified by a recent call to the mother of martyr Tariq Ziad Daoud. The officer's chilling words, "There are still dark days ahead for you," reflect a broader strategy of collective punishment aimed at pressuring resistance fighters to surrender.
The situation in Qalqilya has escalated over the past two years, with occupation forces frequently storming homes in search of resistance fighters. These raids have become a routine event, with the family of Tariq Daoud suffering over 40 home invasions. Khaled Daoud, Tariq's elder brother, recounts the trauma endured by their family, including multiple arrests and harsh interrogation methods. His parents, aged 53 and 52, have faced detention numerous times, often under dire conditions that exacerbate their chronic health issues.
Resistance Amidst Oppression: The Stories of Jibril and Daoud Families
The plight of other families, such as the Jibril family, mirrors that of the Daouds. With psychological and physical torture inflicted by occupation soldiers, the Jibril family has endured repeated raids and arrests. The father, Ghassan Jibril, has been detained multiple times, facing threats against his son, Jibril Jibril, who remains a target of the occupation forces. Despite the intense pressure, both families have shown unwavering resolve, with many preferring martyrdom over surrender.
The head of the Prisoner Club in Qalqilya, Lafi Nassoura, highlights the unprecedented nature of these arrests, while activist Amina Al-Taweel emphasizes the ongoing raids that disrupt the lives of residents. She notes that the military presence in Qalqilya is a significant concern for the occupation, given its strategic location near the separation wall and surrounding settlements. Despite the intimidation tactics employed by the occupation, families remain steadfast in their struggle against oppression, demonstrating a deep commitment to their cause.
- The situation in Qalqilya is not isolated; it reflects a broader pattern of oppression faced by families connected to resistance movements across the West Bank. The Israeli military's strategy often includes psychological warfare, with threats and intimidation designed to instill fear within communities. Human rights organizations have raised concerns about the legality of these tactics, calling for accountability and an end to collective punishment, which violates international law. Moreover, the resilience of families in Qalqilya highlights the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where deep-seated grievances and aspirations for freedom fuel resistance. The ongoing cycle of violence and retaliation continues to impact innocent civilians, leaving them caught in a struggle for dignity and justice.
