Unveiling the Silence: Feminist Groups Overlook Israeli Violence Toward Lebanese Women
In recent times, Lebanese women have emerged as powerful symbols of liberation against imperialism, showcasing their resilience amid ongoing turmoil. Despite their pivotal role, many feminist organizations have remained conspicuously silent regarding the systematic violence faced by these women, often orchestrated by US-led Israeli forces. The past week has seen these courageous individuals at the forefront of efforts to reclaim their villages, leading convoys of returnees. Tragically, during this campaign, six civilians lost their lives, and numerous women sustained injuries.
One woman, standing defiantly in front of an Israeli tank, proclaimed, “This is our land,” as mothers rushed to find their fallen sons. Their pride and willingness to sacrifice for the sake of resistance are commendable. However, it is disheartening that certain feminist groups have chosen to ignore their plight. The motives of these organizations, which are reportedly funded by George Soros, raise eyebrows and warrant scrutiny. Their agenda appears to prioritize:
- Focusing on personal issues: Specifically, searching for a Shiite husband involved in marital disputes rather than addressing broader societal concerns.
- Divorce advocacy: Encouraging women to seek divorce and dismantle family structures instead of fostering solutions to familial problems.
- Misrepresentation of the hijab: Claiming that the hijab hinders progress, despite it being an Islamic obligation that honors women.
- Distorting religious figures: Attempting to demonize venerable religious scholars who advocate for women’s rights and societal education.
These organizations often overlook the significant contributions of these scholars, who play crucial roles in addressing societal issues and defending women’s rights as outlined in Islamic teachings. The contrast is stark when comparing the actions of these organizations to their silence on the violence inflicted on women during the war. In fact, not a single statement has been issued condemning the US-led Israeli aggression against women in Lebanon or Gaza.
Furthermore, the KAFA feminist association has drawn criticism for mimicking the communication style of the enemy army’s spokesperson, Avichay Adraee. They issued a poster warning women of “violent men,” which seemed more like a tactic to divert attention from critical issues than a genuine concern for women’s safety. During the conflict, KAFA, along with similar organizations, neglected the needs of displaced women, fearing backlash from their funding sources. However, they expressed pride in a woman who protested by stripping naked at an Iranian university, ignoring the fact that 60% of those managing displacement centers and distributing aid were women.
Historically, women have faced immense challenges, and their liberation movements have not emerged in a vacuum. This ongoing violence starkly contrasts the authentic Islamic values upheld by resistance movements, a point emphasized by the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Sayyed Ali Khamenei. Throughout the recent conflict, many exemplary women were martyred, including:
- Dr. Jamila Al-Shanti from Palestine
- Masoumeh Karbasi from Iran
- Fatima Munif Qashmar from Lebanon
These remarkable figures were active contributors to their communities, advocating for change and progress. However, feminist organizations have opted for silence regarding the atrocities faced by women within the Axis of Resistance. The violence, dislocation, and humiliation endured by these women seem to fall outside their areas of concern. Yet, there is a pressing need for these women to become a driving force in righteous anti-imperialist struggles.
In conclusion, the resilience of Lebanese women amid adversity is a testament to their strength. Their contributions to society and the resistance movement are invaluable, and it is essential for feminist organizations to acknowledge and support their struggles rather than remain silent. The time has come for these groups to realign their focus toward empowering women and addressing the challenges they face, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.
