International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People (A/RES/32/40B)

How Leadership Choices Have Shaped a Nation’s Struggle

"Solidarity is not an act of charity, but mutual aid between forces fighting for the same objective." – Samora Machel

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, celebrated every year on November 29th, reminds us of the struggles faced by Palestinians. The United Nations created this day to encourage the world to support their rights. While outside factors like displacement and occupation have created many challenges, the choices made by Palestinian leaders also play a big role in the current situation. Poor leadership, internal fights, and missed opportunities have pushed Palestinians closer to the edge.

How Leadership Choices Impacted the People

1. Internal Fighting Between Factions

For years, the rivalry between Fatah and Hamas has divided Palestinians. Instead of working together, these two groups often fight for control. This split has made life harder for everyone. In 2007, Fatah took control of the West Bank, while Hamas ruled Gaza. Since then, they have rarely worked together.

This division:

• Blocks progress toward peace or unity.
• Distracts leaders from helping the people.
• Weakens global support for the Palestinian cause.

The constant power struggles make it harder for Palestinians to see hope for the future.

2. Harsh Governing Styles

Both Fatah and Hamas have faced criticism for how they rule. People accuse them of:

• Shutting down free speech and silencing critics.
• Using public money for personal gain.
• Targeting political opponents, which spreads fear.

Instead of listening to the people, these leaders often focus on their own power. This behavior stops progress and breaks trust between leaders and citizens.

3. Violent Strategies with High Costs

Hamas, in particular, uses violence as a form of resistance. It fires rockets into Israeli areas, often hitting civilians. These actions bring harsh retaliation from Israel, causing even more damage to Gaza. The use of violence leads to:

• Heavy destruction in Palestinian neighborhoods.
• The loss of international sympathy for their cause.
• Justification for stricter blockades and military action.

The people of Gaza suffer the most because of these actions. They live in constant fear and face extreme hardship.

4. Wasting International Aid

Countries and organizations around the world send aid to help Palestinians. This money could build schools, hospitals, and better lives. Unfortunately, reports often show that leaders misuse these funds. Some leaders spend aid money on weapons or personal luxuries instead of helping their communities.

This mismanagement:

• Keeps Palestinians stuck in poverty.
• Makes them rely even more on outside help.
• Prevents real development and growth.

5. Refusing Opportunities for Peace

At times, Palestinian leaders have rejected peace plans without offering alternatives. While they may have valid reasons, these refusals often make life harder for the people. By saying “no” too often, leaders miss chances to improve daily life and end suffering.

When leaders refuse to negotiate, it:

• Increases frustration among Palestinians.
• Strengthens extremist views on both sides.
• Makes future peace talks even harder to achieve.

What These Choices Cost the People

Leadership choices don’t just shape politics—they change lives. Palestinians face:

• Poverty: Many live in overcrowded camps or damaged homes with no end in sight.
• Fear: Bombings, blockades, and military raids have become part of daily life.
• Hopelessness: Without strong leaders, many Palestinians feel abandoned and forgotten.

The actions of leaders often deepen these problems instead of solving them.

How to Change the Story

"True solidarity begins with addressing failures within and creating a foundation for real progress."

The Palestinian people deserve leaders who work for their good. To move forward, leaders need to:

1. Unite for a Common Goal: Fatah and Hamas must end their rivalry and create one plan for the future.
2. Focus on the People: Leaders should spend aid on schools, hospitals, and rebuilding communities.
3. Choose Peace Over Violence: Using diplomacy instead of weapons will protect lives and build trust.
4. Accept Accountability: Leaders must be open about how they spend money and run the government.

When leaders make these changes, they can create real hope for the Palestinian people.

A Better Future for Palestinians

The Palestinian people are strong and resilient. Despite years of hardship, they continue to fight for their rights. However, their leaders must step up and take responsibility. They need to prioritize their people’s needs over politics and personal gain.

On this International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, we must focus on holding leaders accountable. True progress will only come when leaders choose peace, honesty, and unity. Let’s support the Palestinian people by pushing for these changes and helping them achieve the dignity and justice they deserve.

Leadership is not about power—it's about responsibility. The Palestinian people need leaders who understand this.