New Films Showcase Palestinian Perspectives on Conflict

The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict is steeped in historical grievances, with the state of Israel emerging from a history of violence against its former Palestinian inhabitants. Critics argue that Israel's actions classify it as a settler-colonial state, perpetuating a cycle of violence against Palestinians, particularly evident in the IDF's military operations in Gaza and the West Bank. While the UN has condemned Israel numerous times over the decades, the concept of a distinct Palestinian identity has evolved primarily post-1967, when the term 'Palestinians' began to gain traction in international discourse. Trey Yingst's recent book seeks to humanize the conflict by presenting perspectives from both Israelis and Palestinians, emphasizing the need for empathy amid polarization. Additionally, cultural responses to the conflict, such as film screenings showcasing stories from Gaza, aim to provide deeper insight into the human impact of the violence. Amidst the narratives, assertions of ethnic cleansing against Palestinians by Israel are contested, with evidence suggesting their population continues to grow despite the ongoing turmoil.