The Return of the Palestinian Question in the Arab World and Beyond

Abstract

The article introduces the main themes that the special issue tackles and provides several insights on the impact of the October 7 attacks and Israeli retaliation. There are three broad themes emerging from the findings. First is the religious rhetoric to a place of considerable prominence in the conflict. This is true for both sides and although there is of course a significant power asymmetry in the relationship, the centrality of God's will in speeches and declarations give the participants a maximalist position which it becomes difficult to de-escalate. The second aspect is changing patterns of mobilization both inside and outside Israel/Palestine. In this context, the prominent role of individual mobilization stands out. Finally, the article examines the way in which political and social movements rationalise their strategies and behaviours.