THE PALESTINIAN CRY: Through Lebanese Lenses

Opinions are easy when you have no ‘skin in the game’. People with “no skin in the game” are often referred to as those who don’t suffer personal consequences in a particular situation or outcome. This term is commonly used to critique individuals who offer opinions or advice without experiencing any real repercussions themselves.

When observing the Gaza conflict, it therefore becomes an absolute necessity to listen to those who are directly affected, to those for whom the war is not a news broadcast but a deep reality – to those with skin in the game. It’s important to consider this context when discussing the conflict in GAZA.

The following article was written for dia-LOGOS by Vera, a Lebanese believer working amongst displaced people in the Beqaa Valey.

A BRIEF OVERVIEW

Background:

In Lebanon, more than 470,000 Palestinians are registered with the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). Most of these Palestinians are descendants of refugees from the Arab-Israeli War of 1948. In addition, Lebanon hosts a further 27,700 Palestinian refugeeswho had lived in Syria but fled that country after a civil war erupted in 2011. According to unofficial estimates, there were already 250,000 Palestinians in Lebanon and another 53,000 who arrived from Syria.

The Impact Of The Palestinian Israeli Crisis On Lebanon

The impact of the Palestinian-Israeli crisis on Lebanon is potentially significant. The Hizbollah and Palestinian groups in Lebanon have already become peripherally involved in the crisis. The Israeli response has been muted so far, and nor do the Lebanese want a return to the conflict with Israel. Lebanon has indirectly entered the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, with frequent shelling hitting southern Lebanon, which shares its borders with Israel. The conflict has expanded to affect some internal areas as well, with daily threats of Israel bombing Lebanon. This has made the situation tense and unstable, adding to the existing challenges faced by the country.

The Disadvantages Of The Palestinian Israeli Crisis On Lebanon

1. Human losses: Wars have led to the loss of many lives and injuries to many people, causing suffering for families and communities.

2. Infrastructure destruction: Destruction of infrastructure, such as civilian homes and facilities, leads to loss of livelihoods and essential services, increasing the suffering of the population.

3. Forced displacement: Many people are forced to flee their homes due to wars, leading to large-scale displacement and humanitarian crises.

4. Economic disruption: Wars disrupt economic activity and destroy the economic infrastructure, negatively affecting the economy and increasing unemployment and poverty rates.

5. Political and social tension: The ongoing conflict increases political and social tensions within the involved countries and in the region, making peaceful settlement more difficult.

6. Effects on mental health: Wars can leave long-term psychological effects on individuals and communities, such as psychological stress and post-traumatic disorders.

7. Extreme inflation: Due to the war and economic decline, everything has become very expensive, and people are unable to meet their daily needs.

8. Effects on education and development: Education and development processes are significantly affected by wars, with disruptions to lessons and damage to schools and universities, leading to delays in economic and social development. Many students are unable to complete their school year!

9. Economic challenges and lack of medical equipment and supplies may hinder Lebanon's ability to meet the urgent needs of the population during difficult times like wars and natural disasters. This means that it may be unable to provide the required relief in the quantities and quality needed, increasing the humanitarian and health crisis in the country. In addition, the significant pressure on medical and relief institutions in Lebanon due to wars may affect their ability to provide services effectively, leading to delays or hindrance in relief and rescue operations.

The Advantages Of The Palestinian Israeli Crisis On Lebanon

1. Enhancing national unity: Wars can bring the Lebanese people together and strengthen national unity in facing common challenges, contributing to strengthening social and cultural bonds.

2. Demonstrating resilience and determination: Wars can highlight the resilience and determination of individuals and communities, enhancing their ability to face hardships and deal with tough conditions.

3. Raising international awareness: International events may draw international attention to the situation in Lebanon and the need for international support and assistance, potentially directing the necessary aid and resources to help the affected population.

4. Opportunities for cooperation and solidarity: Wars can open the door to opportunities for cooperation and solidarity among neighboring countries and international organizations, potentially enhancing international relations and regional security.

5. Promoting awareness of peace and dialogue: Wars may make conflicting parties realize the importance of peace and dialogue as a means to resolve conflicts, potentially pushing towards greater efforts to reach peaceful solutions.

BIBLE PERSPECTIVE

What does the Bible say about Israel and Palestine at war? First of all, let’s look at at the specific, biblical question: “Whose Side Are You On?” This is the question everyone wants to know the answer to as soon as someone mentions war in Israel. What does God say about war?

In any war, there is suffering, and mistakes are made on both sides. So then, how do we know whom to listen to, what is right, and whose side to be on?

I want to draw the attention to when this very question appears in the Bible. What is more, it was God’s great warrior, Joshua, who asked it.

Israel had just entered the Promised Land, after God told them to go take the land and wipe out its inhabitants. As Joshua was near Jericho, he encountered a man with a drawn sword. “Whose side are you on?” He asked.

It’s a fair question, given what they were about to do. But the response wasn’t what he expected. “No,” the armed man replied.

“No. But as Commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.”

That’s not how you answer an either-or question. What a strange thing to say, since it was the Lord who told Joshua to take the land. Why wouldn’t the commander of the Lord’s army be on Joshua’s side? Regardless, this was Joshua’s response: And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped, and said to Him, “What does my Lord say to His servant?” (Joshua 5:14)

Joshua’s quick response to the Lord is equally humble and admirable. It showed that first and foremost Joshua was a servant and not a general. (Can we say the same about ourselves?)

The Lord then proceeded to tell Joshua what the battle plan was for Jericho. While it wasn’t what anyone expected, Joshua recognized who was in charge. It wasn’t him. The Lord had bigger plans for Israel and for the land He was giving them that was far above human plans.

CHRISTIANS’ PERSPECTIVES

The perspectives among Christians regarding the conflict between Israel and Palestine can vary widely. Some Christians support Israel based on theological beliefs, viewing it as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. Others prioritize justice and peace for both Israelis and Palestinians, advocating for a two-state solution and an end to violence and oppression. Additionally, there are Christians who align with Palestinian grievances, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid and the recognition of Palestinian rights. Overall, the Christian response to the Israel-Palestine conflict is diverse, reflecting a range of theological, political, and humanitarian considerations Here are some different perspectives from Lebanese people

"As a Lebanese citizen, the Israel-Palestine conflict has deeply affected me and my community. Growing up, I witnessed the devastating consequences of this ongoing conflict firsthand. The violence, displacement, and loss of life have left scars on both sides, including here in Lebanon. For decades, Lebanon has been directly impacted by the conflict, with tensions spilling over into our borders. The presence of Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon has added another layer of complexity to our country's socio-political landscape. While we sympathize with the plight of the Palestinian people and support their right to self-determination, we also recognize Israel's security concerns. As Christians in Lebanon, we understand the importance of peace, compassion, and coexistence among all peoples in the region. We long for a resolution to the conflict that respects the rights and dignity of both Israelis and Palestinians. Dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual understanding are essential for building a sustainable peace that benefits everyone in the region. Pastor Fadi,

As a Lebanese Christian, I stand with neither side in the Israel-Palestine conflict. Instead, I believe our role is to be peacemakers and to pray for reconciliation. We must approach news from both sides with discernment, as there are often distortions and lies obscuring the truth. The truth is that the origins of the conflict were not ideal, but Israel's response has been excessive. The undeniable reality is the series of massacres committed by Israel, targeting women, children, civilians, and even bombing hospitals, Red Cross facilities, schools, refugee camps, and press outlets. Despite these horrors, the international community has failed to take meaningful action. This situation reminds me of the story of Jesus, where people saw and knew the truth but ignored it, finding excuses to defend themselves. It's as if they chose Barabbas over Jesus. God sees what's happening, and I believe His heart is grieved. If we truly have hearts and genuine faith, we must stand with the humanitarian cause. Throughout history, the Israelites, as the chosen people of God, repeatedly sinned against Him, culminating in the killing of Jesus, and sadly, this pattern continues today. We pray for peace on both sides, for all the wounded, sick, and those who have lost loved ones and homes. May God reveal Himself to them. Even if people ignore, abandon, forget, or accuse them, it's okay, as they did the same to Jesus before. But God will never abandon them; He will make everything beautiful in His time. God loves both Palestinians and Israelites, and we pray for peace and love to prevail. Rabih, a traditional Christian

In my opinion, the ongoing war and killing of people are unacceptable. It's disheartening that both sides believe they have the right to the land and forget that our time on this earth is temporary; we are merely passing through before returning to our original home. What saddens me even more is the deafness, blindness, and silence of people, including Christians, who take sides with Israel based on theological and biblical interpretations while ignoring actions that contradict the commands and teachings of God. Our hearts seem hardened, as people die from hunger, cold, and thirst. Regardless of our background or religion, we must stand with the humanitarian cause. I had hoped that as Christians, we would be different, but unfortunately, a significant percentage are no different from the rest of the world. We pray for an end to this war and for people to awaken to the truth, soften their hearts, and return to the word of God. As Christians, we must know how to react and support in times of crisis Ismail, a church member

As a Christian, I believe in the inherent dignity and worth of every human being, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. Therefore, it deeply saddens me to witness the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, which has resulted in immense suffering and loss of life on both sides. While I recognize the complex historical and geopolitical factors at play in the conflict, I firmly believe that violence and oppression can never be justified. Instead, I advocate for peaceful dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual respect as the only viable path towards lasting peace and justice in the region. Furthermore, I believe that as Christians, we are called to be peacemakers and agents of reconciliation in the world. This means actively promoting understanding, empathy, and compassion towards all parties involved in the conflict, while also advocating for the rights and dignity of those who are marginalized and oppressed Ultimately, my hope and prayer are for a just and equitable resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, one that respects the human rights and aspirations of all people involved and paves the way for a future of peace, prosperity, and coexistence. Salam, a church member

"As a Christian, I've been deeply troubled by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Growing up in a Christian family, I was taught to love and respect all people, recognizing that we are all children of God created in His image. The violence and suffering endured by both Palestinians and Israelis weigh heavily on my heart, knowing that God's love extends to all His children, regardless of nationality or religion. It pains me to see the senseless loss of innocent lives and the deep wounds of hatred and division that persist in the Holy Land. I believe that God must grieve over the suffering of His children and the destruction of His creation. As Christians, it is our duty to reflect God's love and compassion in the world. We are called to be peacemakers, seeking reconciliation and justice for all. In the midst of this conflict, it can be tempting to take sides and assign blame. But as followers of Christ, we are called to rise above the politics and seek the path of peace. We must advocate for the rights and dignity of all people involved, recognizing that true peace can only come through dialogue, understanding, and forgiveness.May we be instruments of God's peace, working tirelessly to end the cycle of violence and bring healing to the brokenness of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Let us pray for the day when swords will be turned into plowshares and the lion will lie down with the lamb and may God's kingdom of justice and peace reign in the hearts of all people. George, a servant of God