Rashid Khalidi on the Palestinian Cause in a Volatile Middle East, and the Meaning of Settler Colonialism
The New Yorker Radio Hour
Deep Dive
Why does Rashid Khalidi believe the Palestinian cause has not been significantly set back by recent events in the Middle East?
Khalidi argues that the idea of the Palestinians being bereft of allies assumes they had people doing things for their interest, which he doesn't think was true. He believes the so-called Axis of Resistance, led by Iran, was designed to protect Iran, not Palestine.
What does Rashid Khalidi mean by 'settler colonialism' in relation to Israel?
Khalidi defines settler colonialism as the early Zionists' understanding of their effort as colonization, which they described themselves. He argues that Zionism, while initially a refuge for persecuted Jews, evolved into a settler colonial project with the support of imperial powers like Britain.
How does Adam Kirsch differ from Rashid Khalidi in his view of settler colonialism?
Kirsch argues that settler colonialism is a zero-sum way of looking at the conflict, implying the destruction of one people by another. He believes the history of Israel and Palestine doesn't fit this model, as there are now roughly equal numbers of Jews and Arabs, making replacement or elimination unrealistic.
What does Rashid Khalidi suggest as a pathway to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
Khalidi believes compromise and reconciliation are inevitable, as neither side can eliminate the other. He suggests a binational state as a preferred solution, but acknowledges the need for dismantling colonial structures and achieving justice and equality for both peoples.
Why does Adam Kirsch believe a binational state is not a realistic solution for Israel and Palestine?
Kirsch argues that binational states, like those in Yugoslavia or Lebanon, often fail due to deep-rooted hatred and conflict between the groups. He believes a two-state solution is more realistic, as it allows both peoples to maintain their separate identities and avoid the violence of a shared state.
What does Rashid Khalidi criticize about Hamas's actions on October 7th?
Khalidi criticizes Hamas for not adhering to international humanitarian law, arguing that killing civilians is morally wrong, counterproductive politically, and a violation of international law. He believes their actions helped provoke Israel's harsh response.
How does Rashid Khalidi describe the current state of the Palestinian national movement?
Khalidi describes the Palestinian national movement as fragmented and lacking a viable strategy. He believes both major factions, Hamas and Fatah, are discredited and that the Palestinians are in worse shape due to ongoing Israeli annexation and settlement expansion.
What does Adam Kirsch argue is the danger of the settler colonialism framework?
Kirsch argues that the settler colonialism framework promotes a zero-sum view of the conflict, implying the elimination of one group. He believes this leads to rhetoric that denies Israel's right to exist and creates a perpetual cycle of violence and conflict.
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