Survivor of Gaza Describes Western Complicity in Tragedy

Nour Elassy, a poet and writer from Gaza, has recently shared her harrowing experiences as a survivor of the ongoing violence in the region. Now residing in Paris, she reflects on the stark contrast between the global response to the conflict in Ukraine and the silence surrounding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Contrasting Responses to Global Crises

Arriving in France just weeks ago, Elassy witnessed a palpable sense of mourning for Ukraine, with flags displayed prominently across Paris. In stark contrast, she noted that expressions of solidarity for Gaza are muted, often hidden or criminalized. The Palestinian flag, she observes, is scarcely visible, only occasionally appearing in graffiti as a subtle act of defiance.

Elassy attributes this disparity to France’s historical and ongoing complicity in colonialism. She emphasizes that France’s support for the Zionist movement in the 20th century was not born of ignorance but rather an alignment with another colonial agenda. The French government’s swift condemnation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, coupled with its hesitance to address the realities in Gaza, highlights what she perceives as a troubling double standard.

The Human Cost of the Conflict

The situation in Gaza has reached critical levels, with official statistics reporting over 63,000 Palestinian fatalities since October 7, 2023. Elassy notes that estimates suggest the actual death toll could be much higher, with a significant percentage of victims being women and children. The humanitarian crisis has led to widespread starvation, with more than 80 percent of the population relying on minimal daily food intake, often consisting of canned goods or foraged plants.

As hospitals face destruction and medical supplies dwindle, civilians continue to suffer. Reports indicate that around 340 individuals have died from starvation in recent months. Elassy highlights the urgent need for aid, which remains blocked, and the devastation caused by military actions, including attacks on water desalination plants.

International organizations, including various United Nations experts, have condemned the actions in Gaza as violations of international law. Yet, Elassy emphasizes that in France, discussions about Gaza are often dampened, with accusations of anti-Semitism levied against those who advocate for Palestinian rights. She points to a hypocrisy in the global narrative, where Ukrainian resistance is lauded, while Palestinian struggles are dismissed.

Elassy’s evacuation from Gaza, facilitated by the French government, underscores the complexities of her situation. She recalls the harrowing experience of passing through Israeli checkpoints, where she felt dehumanized. Now, in a city that prides itself on liberty, she grapples with the reality that her people are suffering, and the world seems to be watching in silence.

The call for accountability resonates strongly in her words. Elassy demands that the international community recognize the plight of Palestinians, asserting that true solidarity must transcend borders and racial divides. She insists that the narrative around Gaza should not be one of pity but of justice and recognition of rights.

As she walks the streets of Paris, adorned with symbols of support for Ukraine, Elassy hopes for a future where Palestinian flags can also be displayed openly, representing a collective truth rather than a competitive narrative. Her message is clear: solidarity should be universal, not contingent upon geopolitical interests or racial identities.