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Source: https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-882595
Ousting Hamas Is Not Enough: The Reality of Gazans Must Change
(Jerusalem Post) Gershon Baskin - I have consistently and unequivocally advocated for Palestinian rights for freedom, self-determination, and national dignity. This is an attempt to deal with the realpolitik of the current days with a strong desire for an outcome that will move us all forward to genuine peace. The military defeat of Hamas has occurred, even if not yet completed. The alternative Palestinian governance for Gaza is on its way, with a Palestinian technocrat governing committee responsible for day-to-day affairs. The members of the committee have been vetted, selected, and notified. They are all serious, loyal, nationalist Palestinians who have demonstrated clearly for years their contempt for Hamas. In addition to the speed of reconstruction, the success of the process will also be measured by the extent to which the new reality in Gaza changes Gazan society regarding its willingness to live in peace next to the State of Israel. Gazan society has been deeply and negatively influenced by nearly two decades of Hamas rule and control that included the inculcation of hate toward Israel. The new reality of Gaza has to change. It is not enough for Hamas to no longer control Gaza. Change must be seen in daily life. Change must also be seen in the classroom, in all the Gazan textbooks. Textbooks in Gaza (and in the West Bank) need to educate toward building a modern and successful Palestinian society willing to live in peace next to Israel. It should also include the study of Hebrew and a clear recognition that the Palestinian people share the land with the Israeli Jewish people.