ISSUE NO: 005

Zionism 2024: Where to?

The MLN webinar titled "Zionism 2024 - Where to?" was introduced by Hassanal. The webinar focused on the present Gaza crisis and the aftermath. The discussion aims to explore the historical and moral contexts of the ongoing genocidal policies of the Israeli State against the Gaza Strip.

Prof. Ilan Pappé, an Israeli historian and activist, was introduced by the moderator, emphasizing on his work challenging the Israeli State narrative and documenting ethnic cleansing. Each speaker was allotted 15 minutes for their presentation, with 10 minutes for discussion. The moderator handed the floor to Prof. Pappé to share his insights.

He outlined several indications that, in his view, point to the disintegration of the Zionist project:

  • Civil War within Israel: Prof. Pappe noted a civil war-like situation within Israel between a more theocratic, racist, and religious camp (the state of Judea) and a more secular, liberal, and democratic camp (the state of Israel). The cohesion between these two camps seems to be eroding.

  • Global Public Opinion Shift: He observed a change in world public opinion, especially in civil society, with the emergence of the Global Palestine movement. Prof. Pappe predicted that the Global Israel Alliance, which supports Israel, may lose moral validity and not hold on for too long.

  • Shift in Jewish Community Sentiment: Prof. Pappe anticipated a shift in sentiment among the younger generation of Jews, especially in the United States, away from identifying with Israel. He suggests that young Jews may be less inclined to support the continued colonization and oppression of Palestine.

  • Microeconomics of Israel: While acknowledging Israel's impressive macroeconomics, he points out issues in the microeconomics, such as economic disparities and a declining standard of living for many Israelis, particularly due to huge expenditures on the military.

  • Transformation of Palestinian National Movement: Prof. Pappe noted a transformation in the Palestinian National Movement, with increased unity, particularly among the younger generation. He believes that this transformation could play a crucial role in filling the potential vacuum left by the disintegration of Zionism.

  • Role of the Global South: He emphasized the importance of the global South in influencing positive change, anticipating that it can play a crucial role in promoting restorative justice and minimizing violence during the process of decolonization.

Prof. Pappe concluded by expressing hope that the younger generation in Palestine and neighboring Arab states will look to their own past for models of coexistence and build a future that goes beyond the Western nation-state model, potentially influencing the entire Eastern Mediterranean and West Asia.

Prof.Joseph Camilleri expressed his pleasure at being part of the webinar, acknowledging the unfolding tragedy in Gaza. He discussed the initiative SHAPE (Saving Humanity and Planet Earth), co-initiated by Dr.Chandra, Prof. Richard Fork, and himself in 2022. Prof. Camilleri highlighted the importance of taking stock and planning for the future amid the ongoing crisis.

He stressed on the need for a bold response and a carefully integrated strategy covering short, medium, and long-term objectives. In the short term, he called for maximum pressure for a permanent ceasefire, economic reconstruction in Gaza funded by Israel and its Western backers, and direct supervision by the Palestinian people. Civil society in the global West is urged to demand these actions from their governments.


In the longer term, Prof. Camilleri outlined expectations from governments in the Arab world, Muslim world, and other parts of the global South. This included resolutions at the UN to demonstrate the moral and diplomatic isolation of Israel, support for South Africa's application to the ICJ, efforts to bring Israel to the International Criminal Court, diplomatic isolation, and an international campaign for an embargo on arms sales to Israel.


Finally, he suggested a strategy for Civil Society worldwide, emphasizing the importance of NGOs, religious, cultural organizations, and engaged citizens in implementing actions supportive of Palestinian rights. He proposed the establishment of an international non-governmental commission and a panel of eminent jurists to explore effective mechanisms within the UN system and to involve Civil Society more prominently.


Prof.Camilleri concluded by emphasizing that the success of pro-Palestinian mobilization depends on its inspiration, nurture, and coordination with organized Palestinian resistance at home and in the diaspora. He sees the tragedy in Gaza as both a time of high risk and great opportunity, urging a collaborative effort to seize the opportunities and minimize the risks.

  • Arab and Muslim Leadership: Dr. Muzaffar criticized the hypocrisy and failure of Arab and Muslim leaders who condemn Israeli actions publicly but maintained connections and support behind the scenes. He suggested strategic actions they could take, such as controlling critical waterways and oil flow,to exert pressure on Israel.

  • Palestinian Unity: Dr. Muzaffar highlighted the lack of unity among Palestinian leadership, pointing out the division between the Palestinian National Authority and groups like Hamas. He emphasized the need for unity to effectively confront Israel and achieve their goals.

  • Children as Victims: He stressed on the deliberate targeting of children in the conflict, describing it as a form of genocide and ethnic cleansing. He called for a focus on this issue to mobilize global public opinion against the actions in Gaza.

  • Appeal for Unity and Action: Dr. Muzaffar concluded by appealing for unity within the Palestinian movement and a commitment to action,emphasizing the importance of integrity and courage in the struggle for justice.

Overall, he urged for a more proactive and unified global response against the ongoing crisis in Gaza, calling for both Western citizens and leaders in the Arab and Muslim world to take strategic action to address the situation effectively.

In the Q&A session moderated by Dr. Nida Ariff, Prof. Ilan Pappe responded to a question about the possibility of having an international protection force in Gaza. He believed it's unlikely due to the balance of power favoring Israel, and the international community, especially the U.S., not pressuring Israel for such a move. Dr. Chandra Muzaffar concurred, highlighting the need for a major actor's support for an international peace force to be established.


The discussion shifted to a suggestion by Leila Passah for MLN to organize a global campaign, especially involving young leaders. Dr. Nida Ariff raised a question about the potential for a protective measure for Palestinians through the ICJ, referencing the Yugoslav crisis. Prof. Ilan Pappe expressed skepticism, emphasizing Israel's dominance in shaping Gaza's future. The conversation delved into the October 7 events, with a question about the larger context posed by Muna. Prof. Ilan Pappe emphasized the historical context, condemning violence while recognizing the root cause as oppression and colonialism. Dr. Chandra Muzaffar called for an independent investigation into the October 7 incidents, criticizing Israel's narrative.


The final question revolved around how the global South can support actions initiated by South Africa. Dr. Chandra Muzaffar suggested reinforcing the BDS movement and examining the indirect relationships, such as investments and trade. The webinar concluded with a summary by Dr. Nida Ariff, highlighting key points discussed by the panelists, including indications of change, actions for the global North, and the potential role of the global South.


The webinar concluded with Hassanal extending his thanks to the panelists, moderator and participants of the webinar.  moderating the discussion. The Movement for Liberation of Nakba (MLN) is mentioned as the organizing entity.


For more information on the webinar, visit the MLN website: https://nakbaliberation.com/upcoming-webinar-zionism-2024-where-to/