Political Alignments and Public Opinion on Palestine

There is a significant shift in public opinion regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. The increasing awareness of human rights violations in Gaza and the West Bank has compelled many to reconsider their stance. As violence escalates, there is a growing demand for support for Palestinian rights and calls for a ceasefire. Despite the complexity of the issue, The state remains firm on its policies and is unwilling to backtrack. We assess the situation from both sides.

Political Alignments on Palestine

 Understanding state Decisions

To understand the state’s stance on Palestine, it’s essential to recognize what priorities influence its decisions. Only then can one determine whether the state’s priorities are aligned with broader principles or if it operates solely for its own interests.

Rational Choices and Strategic Nature

This perspective can be clarified through John Mearsheimer’s explanations in his book “How States Think,” where he states that state decisions are not based on emotions or personal preferences; rather, states make rational choices based on their interests.

 Major Powers and Their Influence

These decisions are strategic in nature, focusing on the acquisition and protection of power. Major powers maintain their influence in global politics, while smaller states cultivate good relations with larger powers to ensure their own security.

Mistakes Leading to Conflict

Furthermore, Mearsheimer explains that states adopt a confrontational approach in international politics to strengthen their own position and weaken their adversaries. In this context, states can make mistakes that lead to war and conflict. These mistakes have been evident in the worsening situation in Palestine, where such actions are viewed by the public as significant crimes against humanity.

 Violation of Palestinian Rights

The expansion of Israeli settlements, particularly in the West Bank, violates the rights of Palestinians. If these policies continue, establishing peace with Palestine will become impossible.

 U.S. Support for Israel

America’s consistent support for Israel could destabilize peace in the Middle East. The U.S. should consider the rights of Palestinians in its policies. Support from the Israeli lobby hinders America from advocating for Palestinian rights and leads to a one-sided narrative in favor of Israel. Actions taken by Israel regarding Gaza, including the blockade, constitute inhumane treatment and violate international principles.

Public Opinion on Palestine

Complexity of the Issue

The issue of Palestine and Israel has long been considered very complex, and many people in the West did not give it much importance because it involves religious sentiments on both sides. People from both sides are emotional about this matter, which is why many in the Western world have remained neutral, and many have accepted the accusations against Palestine.

Shift in Public Awareness

However, this year, due to the violence against Palestinians and the ruthless oppression they are facing, as well as the decline in human ethics, many people’s eyes have been opened. Those who previously believed the accusations against Palestine are now starting to change their views.

Support for Halting Arms Exports

According to one survey, 56% of people in Britain support halting arms exports to Israel, while only 17% oppose it. The British public has not been this aware of any conflict as they have become regarding Palestine.

Growing Support for a Ceasefire

Another survey indicates that as long as the war continues in Gaza, more people are likely to support a ceasefire. Many will be forced to consider that this war is unjust and will increasingly support peace. This trend is likely to grow across the Western world.

 Declining Support for Arms Provision

According to one survey, 47% of Americans supported providing arms to Israel, but that number has now dropped to just 32%. Support for a ceasefire is increasing.

 Public Awareness of Human Rights Violations

A large majority of the Western public is becoming increasingly aware of the crimes against humanity occurring in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem, leading to a sense of profound shock and anger. Even those who previously justified civilian casualties in Gaza are now realizing in significant numbers that nothing in this world can legitimize such atrocities.

 Disconnection of Politicians from Public Sentiment

However, it is regrettable that the politicians of Western governments are completely out of sync with the sentiments of their public. This is not only morally reprehensible but also a sign of political shortsightedness.

 Response of the Labour Party

The Labour Party in Britain is responding to the growing demands of the public, calling for a halt to arms supplies to Israel. According to a survey, 71% of people intend to vote for the Labour Party because they believe in humanity and value justice and fairness. People do not want to be complicit in further oppression and suffering.