The conflict in Gaza has long been a focal point of international discourse, but the nuances often get lost in broad generalizations. Just as it is unjust to blame all Muslims for the actions of extremist groups like Hamas, ISIS, and Houthi militants, it is equally inappropriate to condemn all Israelis for the policies and decisions of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government.

The events of October 7th, when Hamas launched a violent attack, underscored the severe threat posed by extremist factions. These actions, driven by radical ideology, are vehemently opposed by many Muslims around the world who do not share the same extremist views. The existence of such terrorist groups unfortunately tarnishes the image of the broader Muslim community, which largely promotes peace and coexistence. The overwhelming majority of Muslims are horrified by the violence and seek to distance themselves from the actions of these radical elements that do not represent their beliefs or values.

Similarly, the ongoing military actions in Gaza, which many see as excessively harsh and detrimental to civilian life, are often attributed to the Israeli state as a whole. However, this perspective fails to acknowledge the significant internal dissent within Israel. A considerable number of Israelis oppose Netanyahu’s hardline stance and his government’s policies towards the Palestinians. These Israelis advocate for peace, human rights, and a two-state solution, demonstrating that the views of the Israeli government do not represent the entirety of the Israeli population. The diversity of opinion within Israel is often overlooked in the global narrative, yet it is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the conflict.

The international community often simplifies the conflict into binary oppositions, but the reality is far more complex. The actions of Netanyahu and his supporters have indeed led to widespread criticism and recently have, many times, resulted in negative perceptions of Jews globally. This is unfair, as Jewish communities around the world are diverse, and many Jews strongly oppose the Israeli government’s policies in Gaza. They, too, are advocates for peace and justice, and their voices are crucial in the discourse surrounding the conflict. Many Jews, both within Israel and in the diaspora, have actively participated in protests and advocacy against the current administration’s policies, calling for an end to the occupation and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Condemnation should be directed towards those who perpetrate violence and uphold oppressive policies, not entire communities or religions. It is vital to distinguish between political leadership and the people they govern, just as it is essential to separate extremist factions from the broader religious or ethnic groups they claim to represent. Recognizing this distinction fosters a more nuanced understanding and promotes a path toward peace and reconciliation.

Understanding the distinction between a government’s actions and the beliefs of its people is essential for any productive dialogue about the Israel-Gaza conflict. As the world watches the unfolding events, it is important to remember that both Israelis and Palestinians have diverse perspectives and aspirations. Many on both sides yearn for peace and an end to the cycle of violence. The international community can support efforts toward a just and lasting resolution by acknowledging and amplifying these voices.

In conclusion, broad-brush condemnation only serves to perpetuate division and misunderstanding. By focusing criticism on those directly responsible for violence and oppression and by supporting the many individuals and groups advocating for peace and justice, we can contribute to a more informed and constructive dialogue. This approach respects the diversity within Israeli and Palestinian societies and aligns with the broader quest for global peace and understanding.

It is important to remember that the true instigators of the conflict between Israel and Gaza are Hamas and Netanyahu. It’s crucial not to forget this, as otherwise, the suffering of innocent people will continue to fuel escalating conflict. When the wealthy engage in war, it’s the poor who suffer the most. For all Muslims who support Hamas and Jews who support Netanyahu, you are part of the problem. We cannot change what happened in the past, but we can work towards a safer future for our children to ensure that conflicts like this won’t happen again and again. Have we not learned from our past? Are we, as a human in a modern society, that unaware?