Western Double Standard

In the shadow of ongoing international conflicts, the stark contrast in the treatment of nations grappling with oppression becomes painfully evident. While the world unreservedly supports Ukraine in its resistance against Russian aggression, the plight of Palestine seems to be met with selective silence and biased rhetoric. This divergence in responses raises fundamental questions about the role of powerful nations, particularly the United States, France, and the UK, in shaping the discourse on terrorism and freedom.

The recent statements from America, France, and the UK, branding Palestinians as “terrorists” for their fight for freedom, are indeed perplexing. It is a stark reminder of the selective amnesia that often plagues these nations when it comes to their own historical actions. It is ironic, to say the least, that countries with a track record of inflicting wars upon innocent nations and exploiting entire continents, including the tragic history of slavery, have the audacity to pass judgment on those fighting for their basic rights and sovereignty.

America, for instance, cannot conveniently forget its ongoing exploitation of Africa and its dark legacy of interference and destabilization across the globe. The wounds of past military interventions, from Vietnam to Iraq, continue to fester. The world is well aware of the devastating consequences these interventions have had on innocent civilians. When nations are labelled as “terrorists” for fighting for their rights, it is vital to remember the countless lives disrupted and destroyed by wars waged in the name of geopolitical interests.

France, too, carries the weight of its colonial past, marked by the brutal subjugation of nations and peoples. The scars of colonialism and its long-lasting impacts on former colonies cannot be swept under the rug. It is an uncomfortable truth that France, among other colonial powers, bears responsibility for the instability and strife that continues to plague many regions today.

The UK, with its own history of empire and colonial rule, should be cautious when branding others as terrorists. The legacy of British imperialism still reverberates through many nations, leaving behind a legacy of division and strife. The injustices perpetrated during the colonial era continue to affect millions of lives, making it imperative for the UK to approach matters of terrorism and freedom with humility and introspection.

In light of this history, it is clear that these nations are not in a position to label Palestinians seeking freedom and justice as “terrorists.” It is a reminder that humility and self-reflection should guide their foreign policy instead of hasty judgments that only perpetuate injustice and suffering.

As we analyse the complex dynamics of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, it becomes evident that the historical actions and policies of powerful nations have contributed significantly to the current state of affairs. The United States, France, and the UK have played pivotal roles in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, often prioritizing their interests over the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people.

The selective labelling of Palestinians as “terrorists” conveniently overlooks the root causes of the conflict. The Palestinian struggle for self-determination and the right to exist as a sovereign nation has been marred by decades of occupation, displacement, and violence. The international community, particularly those who have been involved in shaping the region’s history, must acknowledge their role in perpetuating this cycle of suffering.

It is high time for these powerful nations to recognize the historical injustices and their ongoing implications. Instead of rushing to condemn those who resist oppression, they should actively engage in efforts to address the root causes of the conflict. This includes supporting a just and equitable solution that ensures the rights and dignity of both Palestinians and Israelis.

The selective labelling of Palestinians as “terrorists” by nations with their own complex histories of oppression and exploitation highlights the need for greater introspection and accountability. The world cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the suffering of the Palestinian people while conveniently absolving powerful nations of their historical actions. It is time to re-evaluate the discourse surrounding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and work toward a future where justice and freedom prevail for all.