Unicef has labeled Gaza as a ‘graveyard’ for children due to the relentless Israeli airstrikes that have left devastation in their wake, tearing through neighborhoods, schools, hospitals and mosques. The siege on the coastal enclave has led to a lack of basic supplies, water, and electricity, pushing Palestinians to the brink.
The 15th Karachi Literature Festival held a session on ‘Ceasefire Forever’ to shed light on Palestine and its people, discussing their plight, suffering, resilience, and courage. Salma Dabbagh, a Palestinian writer residing in London, discussed excerpts from her novel, “Out of It,” emphasizing its relevance to Gaza’s current situation. The panel discussion was moderated by author and documentary filmmaker Saba Karim.
Dabbagh spoke about her inability to articulate the emotions she feels, acknowledging her own privilege and safety, but also the impact of the ongoing atrocities on diaspora Palestinians.
She also differentiated between anti-Semitic and anti-Zionist sentiments, celebrating recent developments in combating discrimination in the UK. While expressing skepticism about a two-state solution, she also acknowledged the challenges of a one-state solution due to discrimination within Israel’s political and legal system.
The session ended with Dabbagh’s reminder of the importance of continued advocacy and grassroots action for Palestinian rights and liberation.