Israel failure to achieve objectives in Gaza paves way to change dynamics

Tehran, Qodsna - Christopher Helali told the Qods News Agency that despite all pressures that the Palestinian nation is facing, Palestinians deserve statehood and ultimately a united Palestine from the river to the sea.

The interview comes as follows:

Qodsna: Why does Israel continue the war on Gaza despite failing to achieve its goals?

Christopher Helali: Israel continues its war on the Palestinian people in Gaza despite failing to achieve its goals because its true goal is the annihilation of the Palestinian people. Numerous Israeli politicians, commentators, and activists have called for ethnic cleansing, genocide, and the destruction of important sites to Palestinians. Some have even openly called for the destruction of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock so that the third temple can be built. Settler groups have openly called for the expulsion of the Palestinian population of Gaza to neighboring Egypt so that they can take the land for Israel. The situation for the Israeli military and political elite has been a disaster. Many are already saying that Prime Minister Netanyahu will not last as prime minister for much longer. Not only is he facing corruption charges but his coalition is in crisis due to various issues including conscription of exempt religious men and his failure to secure a ceasefire to bring back the remaining hostages. The fact that Israel has failed to achieve its goals in Gaza creates all the more potential to really change the dynamics in the region and beyond.

Qodsna: What would be the impact of the ICJ ruling on the war on Gaza?

Christopher Helali: The impact of an ICJ ruling on the war in Gaza would be symbolic but it would fail to really put the necessary pressure on Israel. Israel’s economy will most likely suffer but many countries still cannot do what is necessary to sever diplomatic relations and break economic ties. However, the longer this genocide continues the more likely we are to see Israel further isolated.

Qodsna: What are the impacts of campus protests on US policies?

Christopher Helali: The impacts are enormous and will have far reaching consequences. The student uprising against the genocide in Gaza is unprecedented in recent decades. It is the largest student movement and mass anti-war mobilization since the anti-Vietnam War protests in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Students have been calling on their universities to divest from all investments that support Israel's ongoing genocide in Gaza. Nearly 3000 people have been arrested at or near college campuses around the United States. Some schools have engaged with their students and committed to divesting from Israel. Others have used the police to repress the student movement and arrest their members and allies. One thing is certain. An entire generation has grown up with this genocide and the complacency of many of the “leaders” and ruling class, further radicalizing them and strengthening their commitment to justice and truth.

 Qodsna: What would be the future of Palestine and the war on Gaza?

Christopher Helali: There are now millions suffering from trauma, hunger, thirst, displacement, malnutrition, disease, disability, and injuries. The future for the Palestinian people in Gaza centers on the rebuilding of Gaza. That will be necessary. Most importantly, the Palestinians deserve statehood and ultimately a united Palestine from the river to the sea!