Klein’s article did a really good job describing exactly what the wall was and its function. Along with that, reading about people’s reactions gave insight to how difficult it is for some to cope with the presence of the wall.
I found it really interesting that some people have such an easier time to get from one side of the wall to the other. There are some exceptions that are made that don’t completely consider everyone fairly. More than anything, I think that having a wall such as this one in a city is a shame. Being a Jewish girl raised in a rather reform family, I am a full supporter of Israel’s existence and I support almost everything they are doing in order to maintain a homeland for the Jewish people, because it is much required and deserved. But in addition to all that, I am someone who supports a peaceful environment for the three religions who have built a history in Jerusalem. They are all entitled to having a presence in the city in which they have such a deep connection to.
I can see why both sides would be opposed or supportive of the wall being put up. A lot of Israelis argue think and argue that it is necessary in order to protect Israeli citizens from any potential danger that could occur. By building the wall, the number of attacks has decreased substantially from the time when the Second Intifada occurred. So by building the wall, it serves as a protective barrier, protecting Israeli citizens.
Those that are against the wall tend to argue that it claims too much territory for Israel, when in reality they believe that land is Palestinian land. Essentially, it violates a code that was established after the 6-Day War. By building this wall, opponents of the wall have shown that it considerably limits their access to the restricted, protected parts of the city and this is true. But then again, I see it from the other side where they have no other choice but to build this wall for the safety of their own citizens.
How can this be resolved when there are such different, opposing viewpoints? By taking away the wall it puts innocent civilians lives in potential danger, but by keeping it, it’s just continuing this everlasting issue.
Although the wall may serve as some sort of protection, it greatly inhibits the peacemaking process. It serves as a constant reminder of the occupation and limitations the Palestinians must deal with. Also, this is the most blatant violation of peoples right to be able to move freely. This was declared a basic human right by the UN's Universal Human's Right Document. Peace may never come if the wall remains standing.
ReplyDeleteVeronica their are many things that I wanted to comment on in your post, but instead I decided to start from the end of my argument. As a human (let put all religious and cultural background aside) don't you think that having a just peace with granting the legal rights for everyone in the region would be more beneficial for both parts and brings peace and security in a more effective way than building a 9 meters high wall? The wall and unjust peace agreements or efforts will not bring peace, or at least a long lasting peace. As long as their is occupation and oppression, people will always find different ways to resist. And Resistance in all its forms is a right granted to each human being by the intentional human rights declaration which Israel signed. I don't agree with attacks on civilians anywhere in the world. Last, I just have a comment on how you described the "other" sides position. It is not something that just that group of people believe that the land it was built on and it annexed it Palestinian land, the land is internationally recognized and even by the countries that fully support Israel as Palestinian occupied land.
ReplyDeleteHey veronica ! :)
ReplyDeleteso I am going to be really honest and tell you that I think you have made a great realization in your blog ! first by being someone who believes in a peaceful environment which means you stand for human rights, second for stating that "They are all entitled to having a presence in the city in which they have such a deep connection to."
But I still feel like you are still mixed in between where you stand on this situation and that is understandable!
It's hard to sometimes recognize the wrong doings or go against something that we identify ourselves with for example our country/nationality.
but all I can tell you is that you can still support something you believe in but still be able to recognize it's flaws...
If we don't learn to break barriers than we don't learn accept each other no matter how different we are... :)
I tend to agree with Mazen. It think that it is important to look at the human side of it. I can really easily get caught up in "this wall" or many other security devices is useful for maintaining safety; but if I put myself on the other side of the wall, I have to think how would I feel. I would write graffiti on the wall too!
ReplyDelete