The Hundred Years' War on Palestine

A Century of Continuous Conflict

The book frames the history of Palestine from 1917 to the present as a continuous 'hundred years' war' waged against the Palestinian people. This perspective challenges conventional understandings of the conflict as a series of isolated events, highlighting the sustained and systematic nature of the challenges faced by Palestinians. It emphasizes the ongoing impact of historical events and policies on the current situation, revealing a pattern of dispossession, displacement, and denial of self-determination. By presenting the conflict as a protracted war, Khalidi underscores the need for a comprehensive and long-term approach to achieving a just and lasting resolution.

The Settler-Colonial Framework

Khalidi argues that the conflict in Palestine is fundamentally rooted in settler colonialism. This framework emphasizes the ongoing efforts to displace and dispossess the indigenous Palestinian population in favor of a foreign occupying power. He contends that understanding this colonial dynamic is crucial for analyzing the historical and contemporary realities of the conflict. This perspective sheds light on the power imbalances, discriminatory practices, and systemic inequalities that have shaped the Palestinian experience for over a century. It also highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict to achieve a just and sustainable peace.

The Influence of External Powers

The book meticulously examines the role of external powers, particularly Britain and the United States, in shaping the course of the conflict. Khalidi argues that these powers have consistently favored Zionist interests over Palestinian rights, enabling the expansion of Israel at the expense of the Palestinian people. He details how their political, economic, and military support has contributed to the ongoing occupation and displacement of Palestinians. This analysis challenges the notion of impartiality and highlights the need for greater accountability from international actors in addressing the conflict.

The Resilience of Palestinian Resistance

Khalidi emphasizes the importance of Palestinian resistance in the face of oppression and dispossession. He highlights the various forms of resistance, from political activism and armed struggle to cultural preservation and intellectual production. This focus on Palestinian agency challenges the narrative of Palestinians as passive victims and underscores their determination to assert their rights and reclaim their homeland. It also acknowledges the diverse strategies and approaches employed by Palestinians in their struggle for self-determination.

Key Turning Points in Palestinian History

The book delves into the impact of key historical events, such as the Balfour Declaration, the 1948 Nakba (catastrophe), and the 1967 Six-Day War, on the Palestinian people. Khalidi analyzes how these events have shaped Palestinian identity, political aspirations, and collective memory. He demonstrates how these historical turning points continue to inform the present-day conflict and influence Palestinian perspectives on the future. Understanding the significance of these events is crucial for comprehending the complexities and nuances of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The Evolution of Palestinian Identity

Khalidi explores the evolution of Palestinian nationalism and identity in response to the challenges posed by colonialism, displacement, and occupation. He highlights the diverse expressions of Palestinian identity, encompassing religious, cultural, and political dimensions. The book also examines the role of literature, art, and music in shaping and sustaining Palestinian national consciousness. This exploration of Palestinian identity provides valuable insights into the cultural and social forces that have driven the Palestinian struggle for self-determination.

The Importance of Collective Memory

The book stresses the crucial role of memory in understanding the conflict. Khalidi argues that collective memory of past injustices and traumas shapes Palestinian perceptions and aspirations. He emphasizes how the denial of Palestinian history and narratives has contributed to the perpetuation of the conflict. By reclaiming and preserving Palestinian memory, the book seeks to challenge dominant narratives and promote a more just and accurate understanding of the past. Acknowledging the role of memory is essential for fostering reconciliation and achieving a lasting peace.

Critique of the Peace Process

Khalidi critiques the failures of the peace process to address the core issues of the conflict, such as the occupation, settlements, refugees, and Jerusalem. He argues that the peace process has often served to reinforce the status quo, rather than creating a genuine path towards a just and equitable solution. This analysis highlights the need for a new approach to peacemaking that prioritizes Palestinian rights and addresses the underlying causes of the conflict. It also calls for greater international pressure on Israel to comply with international law and respect Palestinian self-determination.

The Right to Self-Determination

The book emphasizes the ongoing struggle for Palestinian self-determination as the central issue in the conflict. Khalidi argues that Palestinians, like all people, have the right to determine their own political future and to live in freedom and dignity. He asserts that achieving a just and lasting peace requires recognizing and upholding this fundamental right. This focus on self-determination provides a clear framework for addressing the conflict and achieving a resolution that is acceptable to both sides.