Why Gaza Matters: A Historical Perspective on the Quest for Liberation

After nearly three months of Israel’s war on Gaza, one thing is beyond dispute: the long-isolated territory has returned to the center of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict1. The Gaza Strip, home to 2.3 million Palestinians, has been under an air, sea, and land blockade imposed by Israel for much of the past two decades. However, recent events have exposed the flaws in assuming that Gaza could be indefinitely excluded from the regional equation.

Historical Significance of Gaza:

Strategic Oasis: In antiquity, Gaza was celebrated for its lush vegetation and cool shade. Its strategic value lies in connecting Egypt to the Levant. Contested since the seventeenth century BC, it witnessed invasions, dynasties, and struggles over religion and military power1.
Heart of Palestinian Nationalism: Since the British Mandate period, Gaza has been at the heart of Palestinian nationalism. It served as an incubator for Palestinian identity and resistance1.
The Anomaly of Isolation: The last 16 years of isolation were an anomaly. Gaza has almost always played a pivotal role in the region’s political dynamics. Rebuilding Gaza after the devastating war requires recognizing its historic position and strategic importance1.
A Vision for Liberation:

Lifting the Siege: Demilitarization can only be achieved by lifting the disastrous siege. Gaza must regain its role as a flourishing oasis and a thriving crossroads, connecting the Mediterranean with North Africa and the Levant.
Central to Solutions: The United States and its allies must recognize that Gaza is central to any lasting solution for the Palestinian struggle. Education, healthcare, civilian infrastructure, and free trade should be prioritized1.
In summary, Gaza’s liberation is not only a matter of justice but also a strategic imperative for stability and peace in the Middle East. Let us envision a future where Gaza thrives once again, breaking free from the shackles of conflict and isolation.