A Scottish Palestinian residing in Glasgow, Wael Shawish, has shed light on Israel’s blockade in Gaza, emphasizing that it is not just a measure against Hamas but a deliberate attempt to bring the entire population “to their knees.” Shawish, a retired business analyst born in east Jerusalem, shared his insights on the dire situation facing Palestinians in Gaza amidst the ongoing conflict.
Israel’s recent decision to halt the entry of all goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip has sparked concerns about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. The blockade, coupled with threats of “additional consequences” if Hamas does not agree to a ceasefire extension, has raised alarm among international observers. Hamas has condemned the move as “cheap extortion, a war crime, and a blatant attack on the ceasefire agreement.”
Shawish, reflecting on Israel’s actions, remarked that starving Palestinians is the final step in a calculated strategy to weaken the resolve of the population. He expressed his belief that Israel’s objective is not limited to targeting fighters or Hamas but extends to ordinary civilians who have already endured significant losses in terms of homes, businesses, and essential services.
As the first phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire expires, negotiations for the second phase remain unresolved. The proposal to extend the ceasefire through Ramadan and the Jewish Passover holiday has been put forward, with support from the Trump administration’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. Despite the challenges faced by the Palestinian people, Shawish remains optimistic about their resilience and determination to persevere.
Having spent the last 45 years in the UK following his studies, Shawish shared his personal experience of displacement and exile from his homeland. Reflecting on the plight of many Palestinians like himself, he emphasized the importance of community and support in coping with the trauma and loss that have defined their lives. Shawish’s involvement in the Scottish Palestinian Society has provided him with a sense of solidarity and purpose in helping others navigate the challenges they face.
In Glasgow, Shawish has encountered individuals who bear the scars of conflict and tragedy, each carrying their own stories of loss and survival. The profound impact of the ongoing violence in Gaza, exemplified by the devastating attack by Hamas in October 2023 and subsequent military offensives by Israel, has left a deep mark on the Palestinian community. With thousands of lives lost and families torn apart, the resilience and determination of the Palestinian people in the face of adversity remain a testament to their unwavering spirit.
As Shawish continues to advocate for the rights and well-being of Palestinians, his commitment to seeking justice and support for those affected by conflict serves as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of war and displacement. In the midst of uncertainty and hardship, the voices of individuals like Shawish remind us of the enduring strength and humanity that bind us together in solidarity and compassion.
The ongoing blockade in Gaza, though a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the Palestinian population, also serves as a call to action for the international community to stand in solidarity with those who suffer the consequences of conflict and displacement. As the world watches and waits for a resolution to the crisis in Gaza, the voices of individuals like Wael Shawish offer a glimpse into the human cost of war and the resilience of those who refuse to be silenced in the face of adversity.
