The Nakba Day and Beyond; A Historical Examination of Palestinian Resistance Since 1948

The Nakba Day, or the Day of Catastrophe, is a significant historical milestone for Palestinians, representing the beginning of a long and arduous struggle against displacement and oppression. The events of 1948, particularly the establishment of the state of Israel and the subsequent forced migration of Palestinians, have had profound implications for Palestinian identity and resistance movements. This article delves into the historical trajectory of Palestinian resistance, beginning with the 1947 UN Resolution that partitioned Palestine, leading to the Nakba and the formation of various resistance groups.

Palestinian resistance has evolved through various phases, adapting to the changing political landscape and the persistent threat of colonialism. Key figures, such as Abdul Qader al-Husseini, emerged as symbols of this struggle, inspiring generations to continue the fight for their rights. The article also examines critical events, including the Deir Yassin and Tantura massacres, which not only exemplify the brutality faced by Palestinians but also galvanized their resolve to resist.

In this article, we will examine and analyze some key events, as shown in Figure 1, that have influenced Palestinian resistance from 1947 to the present. This analysis is not just a historical review but an attempt to gain a deeper understanding of the nature of Palestinian events and their significant role in the grand battle of truth against falsehood. The main objective of this battle of faith and disbelief is to uproot arrogance and establish divine justice worldwide, and Palestine is the front line of this battle.

Figure 1. Timeline of Key Palestinian Events

The Course of Events in 1948 from the Nakba Day to the Establishment of the Roots of Palestinian Resistance

With the issuance of Resolution on November 29, 1947, which we have discussed in previous articles, the partition of Palestine was implemented, and on May 14, 1948, the establishment and independence of Israel was announced by David Ben Gurion, the interim Prime Minister of Israel. Palestinians refer to this day as Nakba Day or Yawm al-Nakba. Following the Nakba, the forced migration of thousands of Palestinians from the areas that had been allocated to Israel under this agreement began. The fake regime of Israel became a full-fledged member state of the United Nations on May 11, 1949 after it acquired ownership of 57% of Palestinian land through the 1948 agreement.

Nakba Day and the events of 1948 in general have been the foundation in shaping fundamental developments in Palestinian resistance. Despite facing colonial actions and global conspiracies, Palestinians never wavered in their efforts to secure their rights. Their efforts are carried out in various forms, including strikes, demonstrations, and even armed jihad.

In the path of Palestinian resistance, prominent figures like Abdul Qader al-Husseini emerged. Abdul Qader was an influential figure who was recognized as a symbol of the struggle against oppression and arrogance by forming resistance groups. He was martyred during the 1948 war.

Nakba Day and the 1948 war were some of the toughest crises for Palestinians, leading to the extensive occupation of their land and the displacement and exile of thousands. The presence of the Zionist regime in Palestinian land was accompanied by massacre, crime, and tragedy from the beginning. Over time, this approach did not change; only its intensity increased. The massacres of Deir Yassin and Tantura are two examples of crimes that show the true face of the Zionist regime. Despite much bitterness, these events strengthened the will of Palestinians to continue their struggle and resistance.

From 1967 to 1998, Palestinian resistance entered a new phase, with Palestinians striving through uprisings and struggles to reclaim their rights that were seized from them on Nakba Day. The resistance in Gaza, as part of these struggles, reflects the steadfast determination of Palestinian people against Jewish occupation on Nakba Day. Palestinian resistance is not a struggle limited to recent decades but is part of a historical struggle between the fronts of truth and falsehood. These struggles vividly depict concepts such as indomitability and jihad in the path of truth.

The Role of 1947 Resolution in the Development of the Palestinian Resistance

The form and type of Palestinian resistance before and after the approval of the 1947 resolution have significant fundamental differences. This resolution was apparently passed to resolve the long-standing disputes between Jews and Arabs in Palestine; however, it not only failed to bring about peace, but it became a spark to flare up the Palestinian struggle and start a period full of violence, displacement, and suffering. Before the 1947 Resolution, Palestinians tried to resolve their conflicts with Jews through methods like strikes and occasionally negotiation, but the approval of the Resolution turned the tide and changed the way of Palestinian resistance.

The divisions in 1947 Resolution were completely unjust and unequal, leading to intense protests by the Palestinians right from the start. The approval of this Resolution can be considered as the beginning of hidden efforts by the Zionist regime to achieve goals beyond the provisions of the agreement as well as the beginning of the open struggle by Palestinians to preserve their inalienable rights.

The Zionist regime from the beginning had a vision beyond the establishment of an independent state in a small territory, and the approval of 1947 Resolution was merely a means to stabilize the presence of Jews and the wider occupation of Palestine. In fact, this Resolution was a platform for advancing and realizing the ideology of the Zionist concept of the “Promised Land.” Following the formation of their fake state in 1948, they pursued expansionist policies and suppression of Palestinians.

Many provisions of the 1947 Resolution were in favor of Zionists, but they demonstrated through violence and military strategies that they had no intention of upholding the Resolution’s standards; these policies and actions were among the underlying factors of the events of 1948 in Palestine which led to the escalation of conflicts and ended in the Day of Nakba.

With the increase of violence and the start of the civil war in 1948, the change in nature of Palestinian resistance underwent in a more organized form. Before the 1947 Resolution, Palestinians mainly resisted against the occupation of their land, but the policies and violence of the Zionist regime caused Palestinians to become concerned about their identity and national rights, leading their resistance to evolve into a struggle to defend their identity along with preserving their land. This change was rooted in the Palestinians’ belief in the rightness of their struggle and the necessity of standing against injustice.

With the change of the intellectual and ideological nature of Palestinian resistance, the outward form of the struggles also evolved. After Nakba Day, the resistance moved towards armed structures, and perhaps the wars of 1948 can be considered as the beginning of armed Palestinian struggles.

Impact of the 1948 Events on the Formation and Strengthening of the Palestinian Resistance

The official declaration of the existence of the fake state of Israel on the day of Nakba marked the beginning of important changes in the history of Palestinian resistance, including the 1948 war. The events of 1948 and the strengthening of Palestinian resistance have a direct and unbreakable relationship. These events, which began with Nakba Day, are among the most important events in the history of Palestinian resistance. One day after the announcement of the Zionist regime’s existence on Nakba Day, a war between Israel and a coalition of Arab countries began, which brought the Palestinians into one of the toughest periods of their history. In the 1948 war, as the first war between Israel and the Arabs, Israel managed to emerge victorious with the support of global arrogance led by Britain and the United States. The outcome of this war was the occupation of Palestine and the imposition of displacement, exile, and extensive destruction upon Palestinian people.

The 1948 war led to the massacre and displacement of more than hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and the destruction of hundreds of cities and villages. This tragedy deprived Palestinians of their political and territorial rights and displaced them to neighboring countries. The Gaza Strip, the west bank, and the eastern part of Jerusalem were among the few areas that remained under the control of Palestinians after the 1948 war.

The occupation of Palestine immediately after the establishment of the fake state of Israel proved that Zionists have sinister goals and are seeking to fulfill the slogan “from the Nile to the Euphrates”; but Palestinian people never remained silent against this occupation.

Prior to the establishment of the fake state of Israel and before the 1948 war, there were anti-colonial movements in Palestine as well, but this war and the events following it provided a pretext for the formation and strengthening of more coherent resistant groups. The events of 1948 can be seen as the cornerstone for the formation of resistance groups such as the Palestine Liberation Organization, Hamas movement, and Islamic Jihad; these groups rose up against occupiers based on Islamic values and the Palestinian cause.

The passage of time proved to Palestinians that no international organization or institution truly defends their rights, and even international resolutions and laws violate their rights with the connivance of Zionists behind the scenes. These realities made Palestinian fighters, from nationalists to Islamists, stand together and advance their struggles against Zionists based on common ideals. Palestinian resistance continues, and day by day, the sacrifice and resilience of its fighters increase.

Deir Yassin Massacre

The Deir Yassin massacre is one of the dark and prominent points in the history of Palestine, which is known as a symbol of brutality and violence against Palestinian civilians. This incident should not be considered a random event but rather part of a premeditated plan for ethnic cleansing and occupation of Palestinian land.

On April 9, 1948, on the eve of Nakba Day, Zionist forces attacked the village of Deir Yassin in the west of Jerusalem and carried out the Deir Yassin massacre. This action was part of a plan aimed to expand the territory and asserting control over more areas of Palestine.

The terrorist groups “Irgun” and “Lahi” under the command of criminals like Menachem Begin and Ishaq Shamir were directly responsible for the attack on Deir Yassin. The purpose of these groups was to create fear and terror in the hearts of Palestinian people and expedite their forced migration from their land.

In the brutal attack on Deir Yassin, there are many reports of torture, rape, mass killings, and burning of houses. Many innocent women and children were martyred in this attack, and many others were forced to leave their homes and flee to other areas. The Deir Yassin massacre stands as one of the largest crimes against Palestinian civilians in the period before the establishment of the Zionist regime [1].

The Zionist regime, by committing the Deir Yassin massacre, aimed to send the message to Palestinians that if they resist, there will be no safe place for them in their own land. The regime’s purpose was to force the remaining Palestinians to leave their homes and prevent the gathering and organization of resistance forces. The result of this criminal act was the widespread migration and displacement of Palestinians, which some statistics consider it to be more than eighty percent of the total Palestinian population.

The Deir Yassin massacre took place at a time when the Zionist regime was heavily strengthening its military forces to counter Arab forces and Palestinian resistance. The occupation and seizure of lands and the evacuation of villages strengthened the military position of the Zionist regime in Palestinian territory; in addition, the regime sought to establish Jewish settlements in Palestinian lands. The crime of Deir Yassin, which led to the evacuation of this village, helped the Zionist regime to occupy more lands for building settlements and settle Jewish immigrants, such that after the Deir Yassin massacre, this area became part of the Givat Shaul neighborhood.

Statistical sources have provided different numbers regarding the casualties of the Deir Yassin massacre, numbers like 107, 200, 250, 320, and 360. In some analyses, it is said that the number of killings was intentionally announced high to create fear and terror in other areas and expedite the evacuation of Palestinian lands. However, others believe that the actual number of martyrs was also very high. This uncertainty and statistical differences is caused by the policies of the Zionist regime which expertise in hiding facts and spreading lies. Whenever this regime has its interests to provide accurate statistics, it does not hesitate to do so, but if its interests lie in hiding the truth, it employs all its power, media, and analysts to carry out this task.

The Tantura Massacre

The Tantura Massacre, as one of the most heinous crimes committed during the establishment of the illegitimate Israeli regime, the Tantura massacre was a part of the Zionist plan for ethnic cleansing, changing the population structure of the Palestinian land, erasing Palestinian identity, and creating a fake entity. Examining this event reveals the sinister goals and colonial nature of the Zionist regime, and shows that this regime was formed on the basis of oppression and the slaughter of civilians from the beginning of its existence.

During the Tantura Massacre, which took place in 1948, Israeli forces attacked the village of Tantura and killed hundreds of Palestinian civilians. This crime was not only limited to killing, but also included looting, house demolitions, and forced migration of the survivors. This human tragedy and open war crime was committed by a regime that claims to uphold democracy and respect human rights.

In the Tantura Massacre and many other crimes committed by the Zionist regime, the media and international institutions have tried to cover up or downplay these crimes. The silence of the international community and the cooperation of some Western powers with the Zionist regime have paved the way for the repetition of such tragedies, the latest example of which is ongoing crimes in Gaza.

The lack of accountability and punishment for the perpetrators of these crimes is a sign of the weakness of the international system and the influence of Zionist lobbies in global decisions. The “Tantura documentry” effectively exposes the crimes of Zionists and their lobby in hiding the truth.

The crimes of the Zionist regime not only harm the people of Palestine but are also a threat to global peace and security. Fighting against this regime and supporting the oppressed people of Palestine is the duty of every free individual committed to justice and humanity.

The Camp David Betrayal

The Sinai Desert, a strategic peninsula in the north east of Egypt serving as a bridge between Asia and Africa, has long held geopolitical importance and attracted the attention of regional and international powers. With access to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, this region plays a vital role in global trade and transit. Control over the Sinai dessert means control over an important part of the vital routes of energy and international trade. Hence, colonial powers and the Zionist regime have always had their eyes on this area.

The importance of this region doubled with the signing of the Camp David Agreement in 1978. This agreement, which was signed between Egypt and Israel with the mediation of the United States, ostensibly sought peace between the two sides but in fact, it was a colonial deal that led to the consolidation of the power of the Zionist regime in the region and the weakening of the Islamic resistance front.

In the Camp David Agreement, Egypt, as the largest Arab country, officially recognized the entity of the Zionist regime and stopped supporting the Palestinian cause.

One of the most important goals of the Camp David Agreement was to remove Egypt from the anti-Zionist front, and as a result weaken the Arab front. With this action, the Zionist regime was able to comfortably proceed with further occupation and suppression of Palestinians. In return, Egypt gained limited concessions in the form of regaining control of the Sinai desert, which was accompanied by many military and security restrictions.

The Camp David Agreement was a clear betrayal of the Palestinian cause and a colonial conspiracy to weaken the Islamic nation. This agreement not only failed to bring peace to the region but also paved the way for further aggressions by the Zionist regime. Throughout history, the United States and other colonial powers have long pursued their interests in the region and used the Zionist regime as a tool to achieve these interests. The Camp David Agreement was signed in the same direction and with the aim of consolidating American and Zionist power in the region.

The recapture of the Sinai desert by Egypt was not a real achievement but rather a concession to deceive public opinion and legitimize the disgraceful Camp David Agreement. This concession was very insignificant compared to the abandonment of the rights of Palestinian people and the recognition of the fake entity of the Zionist regime.

Western media tried to manipulate facts and create a narrative to legitimize the Camp David Agreement as a great achievement for peace in the region, while this agreement was actually a prelude to further aggression by the Zionist regime. The consequences of the Camp David Agreement affected not only Egypt and Palestine but the entire region. This agreement weakened the unity of the Islamic world and strengthened the position of the Zionist regime, allowing the U.S. to expand its military presence in the region and continue its colonial interests.

The Camp David Agreement, on the surface, appeared to be an agreement for peace and reclaiming the land, but in essence, it was a tool to consolidate colonial rule and suppress the oppressed people of Palestine. This event reminds us that in order to achieve true peace in the region and the world, we must fight against colonization and occupation, and defend the rights of Palestinian and other oppressed people of the world. Achieving genuine peace will not be possible without a fair solution to the problems of the world’s oppressed and putting an end to arrogant colonialism by powers like the U.S. and the Zionist regime.

Palestinian Resistance during the Period of 1967-1998

The period of 1967-1998 in the history of Palestine is a period of key developments, occupation, resistance, uprisings, and betrayal. This timeframe witnessed bloody wars, the beginning of uprisings, as well as ambiguous agreements.

In the Six-Day War in 1967, the Zionist regime, through attacks on Arab countries, occupied large parts of Palestinian lands, including the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and Eastern Baitul Muqaddas. This occupation led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and created a humanitarian crisis in the region.

Although the 1967 war let to the occupation of Palestinian lands, it strengthened the spirit of resistance and struggle among Palestinians. Following the 1967 war, Palestinian militant groups were formed to reclaim their lands and started armed struggles. In these years, the Zionist regime continued its policies of oppression and violence against Palestinians. Building Zionist settlements in occupied lands and creating difficult conditions for the Palestinians were among the actions of this regime.

In 1987, the First Intifada (Palestinian resistance) began with a popular uprising of Palestinians in the occupied territories. This intifada was a spontaneous and widespread protest movement that took place with the participation of all sections of the Palestinian society in order to end the Zionist occupation and achieve independence. In this uprising, Palestinians went against the tanks and advanced weapons of the Zionist regime with stones, sticks, and bare hands. The First Intifada was a symbol of resistance and steadfastness of Palestinian people, drawing global attention to the Palestinian issue. It also showed that Palestinians hate compromise and surrender, and despite years of occupation and suppression, they still stick to their ideals.

In 1993, the Oslo Accords were signed between the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Zionist regime. This agreement was apparently aimed to create peace between the two sides, but in fact it was a colonial deal that led to the weakening of the Palestinian cause. By signing this agreement, the PLO recognized the existence of the Zionist regime and turned a blind eye to many of its rights.

The Oslo Accords not only failed to bring about peace but also paved the way for the expansion of settlements and aggressions by the Zionist regime. Additionally, this agreement caused divisions among Palestinian groups and weakened the resistance front.

The time period of 1967-1998 was the period of increasing occupations, establishment of illegal settlements, intensifying oppression of Palestinians, and also spreading the spirit of resistance and struggle among Palestinians.

In this article, we examined the course of events affecting Palestinian resistance from the Resolution of 1947 to the day of Nakba and the Camp David Agreement. Throughout all these events, one can clearly see the continuous efforts of occupiers to erase the identity and rights of Palestinian people, and on the other hand, the Palestinian resistance. This resistance shows the will of a nation that is not willing to accept humiliation and oppression. What is happening in Palestine is beyond political and geographical conflicts; it is an ideological and confrontational battle between truth and falsehood. Where do we stand in this battle? Which side of these two fronts is each of us on? After the obvious crimes of Zionists, is there still any uncertainty for anyone to join the front of truth?

Conclusion

The examination of historical events surrounding the Nakba Day reveals a complex narrative of resilience and resistance among Palestinian people. From the initial shock of displacement in 1948 to the formation of organized resistance groups, the struggle for Palestinian rights has been marked by significant challenges and sacrifices. The Deir Yassin and Tantura massacres serve as stark reminders of the violence inflicted upon Palestinians, yet they also highlight the unwavering spirit of resistance that has emerged in response to such atrocities.

The evolution of Palestinian resistance is not merely a reaction to oppression but a profound assertion of identity and rights. The ongoing struggle reflects a broader ideological battle against colonialism and injustice, emphasizing the need for global awareness and support for the Palestinian cause. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial to recognize the historical context that shapes the current dynamics and to advocate for a just resolution that acknowledges the rights and dignity of Palestinian people. The fight for justice in Palestine is a fight for humanity, and it calls for solidarity from all who believe in the principles of freedom and equality.

References

[1] Imam Khamenei’s Statements in meetings with different segments of the people Address July 20, 1994.