Rethinking the Narrative: Addressing Root Causes of the Gaza Conflict

Caitlin Johnstone, an independent journalist from Melbourne, Australia, critically examines the prevailing narratives surrounding Israel's actions in Gaza. She argues that discussions have been dominated by questions posed by the Israeli government, particularly the claim: "What was Israel supposed to do after October 7?" According to Johnstone, this framing is flawed because it overlooks the deeper issues of systemic oppression and longstanding abuses faced by Palestinians prior to October 7. She emphasizes that rather than focusing on Israel's response to the recent attack, the real question should be about the historical injustices inflicted upon Palestinians and what actions they could have taken in response. She contends that Israel's ongoing policies—characterized by settler-colonialism, apartheid, and violence—are the root causes of the conflict. Johnstone advocates for dismantling the structures of oppression, granting equal rights, and addressing past wrongs, asserting that these steps are the true solutions to the cycle of violence. She also highlights that the recent escalation was a consequence of decades of systemic abuse, and that current events in Gaza are a reflec...