Professor Islam Ozkan, a historian at Istanbul University and a journalist, recently discussed the complex historical and political context of Jerusalem and Palestine in an interview. He emphasized the critical importance of understanding Jerusalem's history, which is deeply intertwined with religious texts and beliefs.
Professor Ozkan highlighted the perspective held by some Israelis who, citing a historical connection of over two thousand years, consider themselves the rightful inhabitants of Palestine. He noted, however, that a segment of the Zionist movement rejects this historical narrative and views the establishment of the Israeli state as a consequence of colonialism and occupation. Despite this, they argue for Israel's right to exist, equating it to the legitimacy of an "illegitimate child."
The professor underscored that the Palestinian issue transcends religious conflicts between Jews and Muslims, framing it instead as a political struggle over land rights. He criticized the portrayal of Palestine as a divinely promised land for Jews, asserting that this narrative is used to justify occupation.
Addressing the question of how to approach the Palestinian issue from a human rights and justice perspective, Professor Ozkan declared that Palestine is illegally occupied according to international law. He argued that the indigenous Palestinian population has been unjustly displaced, with their land declared as the homeland of the occupiers, which he contends violates principles of human justice.
Ozkan advocated for a humane resolution, stating that Jerusalem should belong to Palestinians of all faiths—Muslims, Jews, and Christians alike. He proposed that if the occupiers were to withdraw, as during the Ottoman era, all religious groups could coexist and practice their faith freely in Jerusalem.
Drawing attention to the exploitation of Judaism by Zionists, Professor Ozkan noted that many early Zionist leaders were secular and did not adhere to religious beliefs. He criticized the current Zionist movement for manipulating religious texts to support their agenda, describing Zionism as a fascist ideology that misuses Judaism to promote racial supremacy.
Amnesty International Calls for ICC Investigation into Israeli War Crimes
Amnesty International has urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate three alleged war crimes committed by Israel, resulting in the deaths of 44 Palestinian civilians, including 32 children. These incidents, which occurred between April 16 and 20 in Gaza, have been documented as part of a broader pattern of attacks by the Israeli military that Amnesty claims violate international law.
Erika Guevara-Rosas, a senior director at Amnesty International, stated that these attacks demonstrate a systematic disregard for Palestinian lives. Amnesty's call follows ICC prosecutor Karim Khan's recent request for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Should the ICC judges approve this request, all 124 member countries would be obligated to detain the two Israeli officials. This development underscores the ongoing international scrutiny of Israel's military actions and the broader implications for justice and accountability in the region.
