Gaza under Siege: The Continuation of Zionist Demographic Cleansing Policies Since the 19th Century
This op-ed by Refaat Ibrahim asserts that the current war in Gaza is not merely a defensive act, but rather the latest phase in a long-standing, systematic Zionist colonial policy aimed at demographic cleansing and forced displacement of Palestinians.
People are seen loading their belongings onto a truck in this undated photo. (Photo: Pearls & Irritations)
Misrepresenting the Conflict
Israeli propaganda often frames the war on Gaza as a “defensive reaction.” However, historical evidence reveals a different reality: systematic genocide, destruction of civilian life, and deliberate efforts to uproot entire populations. This is a direct continuation of Zionist colonial policies dating back to the late 19th century.
Goals of Zionist Policies
These policies have consistently aimed to establish a racially pure Jewish state at the expense of Palestinians through forced displacement, economic blockades, and deliberate warfare. Gaza is not an exception but a primary target within this ongoing colonial strategy.
Historical Roots: Zionism and Forced Transfer
From its inception, the Zionist movement regarded Palestinians as a “demographic obstacle” to creating a Jewish state. Referring to this, Theodor Herzl, the founder of political Zionism, wrote in his 1895 diary:
“The removal of the Arabs from Palestine must form part of the Zionist plan. The poor population can be transferred across the border by denying them employment. This must be done quietly and carefully.”
Summary
The Gaza conflict reflects a century-long colonial strategy characterized by forced displacement and demographic manipulation aimed at establishing a homogenous Jewish state, continuing policies established since the late 1800s.