Oppression in Palestine did not start on Oct. 7, but 106 years ago: Palestinian envoy to UK

In a poignant declaration, the Palestinian envoy to the United Kingdom has emphasized that the oppression faced by Palestinians did not commence on October 7 but traces back a staggering 106 years. This statement sheds light on the enduring struggle of the Palestinian people and the historical context that has shaped their experience.

The date October 7 may mark a particular incident or escalation, but the envoy’s assertion underscores a broader narrative of historical injustices and the protracted challenges faced by Palestinians. The reference to 106 years alludes to the pivotal year 1917 when historical events, such as the Balfour Declaration, played a role in shaping the trajectory of the Palestinian experience.

The Balfour Declaration, issued on November 2, 1917, by the British government, expressed support for the establishment of a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine. This declaration had profound implications for the Palestinian population, setting the stage for a complex and enduring struggle for self-determination.

The envoy’s statement serves as a reminder that the grievances and struggles of the Palestinian people are deeply rooted in a historical context that predates more recent events. The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has deep historical roots, marked by displacement, dispossession, and contested narratives of homeland and identity.

As the international community grapples with finding a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, acknowledging the historical dimension of the issue becomes imperative. The envoy’s emphasis on the longevity of oppression underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of the historical forces that continue to shape the realities on the ground for the Palestinian people.