Gaza: An Enduring Legacy That Defies Erasure Amidst Trump and Israel’s Influence

In recent discussions surrounding the conflict in Gaza, the annihilation of cultural heritage has emerged as a critical concern. Prominent figures like US President Donald Trump and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage have made alarming comments regarding Gaza’s future, suggesting a complete erasure of its historical significance. Their remarks highlight a troubling colonial mindset that aims to rewrite history while disregarding the rich cultural tapestry of this ancient land.

The rhetoric surrounding Gaza is not merely about war; it is a profound attempt at cultural genocide. The ongoing assault on the region has targeted not just the living but also its historical landmarks. Israel’s military actions have resulted in the destruction of over 200 heritage sites—an intentional strategy aimed at severing Gaza from its past.

• The harbor of Anthedon, dating back to 800 BC, has vanished from the map.
• The Great Mosque, Gaza’s largest and oldest, has succumbed to the ravages of war.
• The Church of Saint Porphyrius, a sanctuary for Christians for centuries, was bombed while civilians sought refuge within its ancient walls.
• Over 1,100 mosques and numerous other religious sites have been attacked, with many completely leveled.

This systematic targeting is not just destruction; it is an effort to obliterate the very notion that Gaza and its people have a rightful claim to this land. The history of Gaza is rich and complex, dating back thousands of years. It was a thriving center of trade and culture long before modern cities like London and Paris were even conceived.

British archaeologist Flinders Petrie traced Gaza’s existence back 5,000 years, revealing layers of history marked by Canaanites, Egyptians, Philistines, Persians, and Greeks. The region was a bustling hub during the first millennium BC, where goods flowed to the Mediterranean, Europe, and Asia.

After the death of Hashim ibn Abd Manaf, the great-grandfather of the Prophet Muhammad, Gaza earned the name Gaza Hashim in his honor. The city became a pivotal point in trade that transformed Mecca into a commercial center, a journey immortalized in the Quran.

Throughout its history, Gaza has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. From Byzantine churches to Ottoman mosques, the city has been a melting pot of cultures and religions. The legacy of scholars like al-Shafi’i, who expressed a deep longing for Gaza, underscores the city’s significance in Islamic history.

However, the narrative perpetuated by some modern commentators reduces the Palestinian experience to one of ignorance and backwardness. This dehumanization serves a purpose: it justifies the ongoing violence against the people of Gaza, making it easier for the world to overlook their plight.

Contrary to these misconceptions, Palestine boasts one of the highest literacy rates globally, around 97%. Before the conflict escalated, Gaza was home to numerous universities producing skilled professionals across various fields. Yet, the violence has targeted not only these institutions but also the very individuals who contribute to society, with reports of over 90 professors and countless teachers and students being killed.

Gaza is not merely a geographical location; it represents the essence of Palestinian identity. After the Nakba of 1948, when hundreds of thousands were displaced, Gaza became the last refuge for many Palestinians. It has fostered leaders of the Palestinian struggle and nurtured a rich cultural heritage, as reflected in the poignant words of a young boy amidst the ruins, singing of his homeland.

The destruction of Gaza is not a new phenomenon; it has been part of a broader strategy to erase Palestinian identity. Israeli strategist Arnon Soffer’s chilling remarks from two decades ago foreshadowed the current humanitarian crisis, emphasizing a calculated approach to managing Gaza’s population.

Trump’s vision for Gaza reflects a colonial exterminator’s mindset, aiming for a complete erasure of the region’s history and culture. This cold calculation mirrors the historical injustices faced by indigenous peoples globally, where entire civilizations were wiped out in the name of progress.

For the people of Gaza, leaving is not an option; it would mean surrendering to a false narrative that denies their existence. Each destroyed monument and silenced voice represents a profound loss, yet they refuse to abandon their history. A middle-aged man, sitting in the ruins of his home, encapsulated this sentiment: “My son has died here. His blood was spilled here. His bones lie beneath this rubble.”

To the world, Gaza may appear as mere debris, but for its residents, it is sacred ground. Every stone is a testament to their resilience and enduring heritage. The ongoing cultural genocide threatens not just their lives but their very identity and history.

As the conflict continues, it is imperative that the world recognizes the importance of preserving Gaza’s cultural legacy. Gaza is not merely ruins; it is human heritage that deserves to be restored, not erased. The struggle for recognition and respect for their history continues, and the international community must stand in solidarity with the people of Gaza to ensure their voices are heard and their history is honored.

Soumaya Ghannoushi is a British Tunisian writer and expert in Middle East politics. Her journalistic work has been featured in various prominent publications, and she actively shares her insights on social media.