International Dynamics of Palestine was discussed at our university
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In the seminar organized by the Human Rights and Freedoms Society of our university, the occupation and resistance processes in Palestine were discussed with their historical and current dimensions. Dr. Lect. Ahmet Yusuf Özdemir, drew attention to the effects of global colonial policies and emphasized that international support for the Palestinian people’s struggle for rights should be increased.
The seminar on “International Dynamics of Occupation and Resistance in Palestine” organized by the Human Rights and Freedoms Society of our university was held in E-502 hall of Sütlüce Campus. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Yusuf Özdemir from the Department of Political Science and International Relations at Ibn Haldun University, who has been working at our University for many years, attended the seminar as a speaker. Academicians and students followed the seminar.
INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY SHOULD BE MORE SENSITIVE
The opening speech of the event was made by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Arslan. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arslan drew attention to the humanitarian crisis in Palestine and emphasized that the international community should act more sensitively on this issue. Touching on the historical and current dynamics of the conflict in Gaza, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arslan pointed out the importance of raising awareness worldwide to end oppression.
INCIDENTS ARE NOT JUST POLITICAL
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arslan expressed the difficulties experienced by the Palestinian people in his speech and stated that efforts towards finding solutions should be supported more. Stating that the events in the region should be evaluated not only politically but also in terms of human rights, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arslan emphasized the importance of societies acting in line with the principles of peace and justice and demonstrating common solidarity for a sustainable solution.
HISTORICAL AND INTERNATIONAL DIMENSION OF PALESTINE WAS DISCUSSED
Dr. Lec. Ahmet Yusuf Özdemir comprehensively evaluated the occupation that the Palestinian territories have been subjected to throughout history and the dynamics of this occupation. Emphasizing that the Palestinian issue is not merely a regional problem, Dr. Lec. Özdemir stated that it should be considered as a reflection of global colonialism policies.
ISRAEL’S OCCUPATION POLICIES AND THEIR RESULTS
Dr. Lec. Özdemir explained with historical and geographical maps how Israel has been gradually expanding Palestinian lands since 1946 and how the living spaces of Palestinians have been shrinking. Analyzing Israel’s systematic occupation policies, Dr. Lec. Özdemir stated that the international community and especially organizations such as the United Nations are inadequate in this regard. Emphasizing that the United Nations has historically been unable to implement decisions taken against Israel due to its structural deficiencies, Dr. Lec. Özdemir stated that the power imbalances in the international system negatively affect the Palestinian people’s search for rights.
BLOCKADE POLICIES AND THE IMPORTANCE OF RESISTANCE
Drawing attention to Israel’s settler colonialism policies, Dr. Lec. Özdemir stated that this situation is not only a land occupation but also a process of cultural and economic destruction. Stating that the blockade policies implemented by Israel in Gaza have made the region uninhabitable, Dr. Lec. Özdemir emphasized that the fundamental rights and freedoms of the people living here are restricted and their living conditions are far below international standards. Dr. Lec. Özdemir said that Israeli control over access to electricity, water and other basic needs was part of a colonialist government strategy.
MODERN FORMATIONS OF RESISTANCE
Addressing the historical dimensions of the Palestinian resistance, Dr. Lec. Özdemir analyzed the political, economic and cultural effects of the occupation, especially since 1948, and explained the modern formations of the resistance and the turning points in this process. Providing examples of how Israel’s settler policies shape resistance groups, Dr. Lec. Özdemir also evaluated the historical context of the events of October 7. Dr. Lec. Özdemir stated that despite the difficulties Gaza faces, the Palestinian people’s continuation of their struggle should be supported more by the world community.
The event continued with a question and answer session. Participants asked questions to Dr. Lec. Ahmet Yusuf Özdemir about the topics discussed in the seminar. The event ended with the presentation of a certificate of appreciation to Dr. Lec. Özdemir and a collective photo shoot.
