Normalisation, and the need to reclaim the initiative

By: Omar Shaban

The currents of history are not like lightning bolts arriving suddenly; they are an accumulating chain of events small and large. The erosion that has struck the standing of the Palestinian cause began gradually many years ago, with indicators and signs perfectly visible to the eye.

The wheel of history and development cannot be stopped. There are those who make the event, possessing the resources, wisdom, shrewdness, and flexibility — and there are those whom the fates toss as they please. The march of history is too strong to resist; we must think seriously about how to benefit from the opportunities history's movement may grant, or to adapt and adjust — especially if you are weak — to reduce losses and harms as far as possible.

More dangerous than losing the alliance of regimes is losing the love and support of peoples. No people, whatever it may be, accepts insult or accusations of treachery, nor incitement against its regime from outside individuals and regimes — especially where these offer it no model worth emulating. Attacking the peoples of the Gulf is very harmful and profitless. True, we had a great role in educating these peoples — but that was in exchange for enormous material returns that contributed much to strengthening Palestinian society's steadfastness through remittances and cultural and intellectual exchange. We must never forget that hundreds of thousands of Palestinians still live there and play a very important role in keeping the cause a matter of concern. They are ambassadors of the cause and a source of support for society here.

With the passing of the system of values, replaced in recent decades by a system of interests and entanglements, it is the right of any regime or people to pursue its interests even if illusory or short-term. We must not appoint ourselves guardians and sages over others.

It must be noted that this deterioration has not yet reached its end; we should expect further steps that may shock us but are consistent with the context. So the great challenge remains: how do we preserve ourselves and our cause amid this sea of clashing waves? Lamentation, invective, shouting, and populism in discourse will not deliver us.

Building the elements of strength, regaining the initiative, and repositioning begin from within. Assembling the levers of strength through political unity, balanced development, strengthening the role of diaspora Palestinians, and integrating youth and talent into decision-making are essential to achieving that — and possible, if the will exists.

We are very late — but to begin today is better than tomorrow.