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Palestinians in Hebron Express Support for Putin and Kim Jong Un

Oct 20, 2023

Hamas, Putin and Kim Jung Un

In a recent and unexpected development, a segment of Palestinians in the Israeli city of Hebron has been openly displaying their support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un. These expressions of solidarity come as a surprise, given that the two leaders are often in the international spotlight for their possession of nuclear weapons and their regular challenges to Western democracy.

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The City of Hebron

The dynamics in Hebron, a city known for its tense atmosphere and complex Israeli-Palestinian relations, are complicated and multifaceted. This new development adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate socio-political landscape. Putin and Kim Jong Un, who are often viewed with skepticism in the Western world, apparently resonate with these Palestinians, reflecting the multifarious and at times conflicting sentiments that exist within the region.

Hatred of America and Democracy

The reasons behind this support are varied. Some believe it is born out of a shared animosity towards the United States and its allies, while others see it as a manifestation of the broader geopolitical tensions that characterize the region. As these unlikely alliances continue to evolve, they underscore the intricate and delicate nature of Middle Eastern politics, where alliances are fluid and often shaped by regional and international dynamics.

Why Hamas Hates America

In examining the roots of Hamas’ hostility toward the United States, it is crucial to delve into the historical, political, and ideological factors that contribute to this animosity. Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist political organization and militant group, was founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, a Palestinian uprising against Israeli rule. It is designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S., European Union, and other nations.

One of the primary reasons for Hamas’ hatred is the U.S.’ unwavering support for Israel. America’s military, financial, and diplomatic backing of Israel has often been perceived by Hamas and its supporters as a direct opposition to the Palestinian cause. This support exacerbates the feelings of injustice and oppression experienced by the Palestinians.

Ideologically, Hamas emerges from the Muslim Brotherhood, a transnational Sunni Islamist organization. The U.S.’s policies and actions in the Middle East, particularly those perceived as interfering or imposing Western values, often clash with the ideological foundations of groups like Hamas. The U.S.’s involvement in conflicts in the region, and its relationships with Arab governments that are seen as repressive, further fuels the disdain.

Furthermore, the U.S.’s war on terror and its military actions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other parts of the Muslim world have contributed to the antipathy. For Hamas, these actions are seen as an assault on Islam and Muslims, intensifying the animosity.

The animosity Hamas harbors towards America is multifaceted, rooted in historical grievances, ideological clashes, and geopolitical tensions. Addressing this hostility requires a nuanced understanding of these complex dynamics, beyond the oversimplified narratives often propagated. The path to reconciliation and peace is intricate, demanding concerted efforts from all parties involved to address the underlying issues and work towards a sustainable resolution.