A widespread general strike has unfolded across New Jersey’s Arab American communities, fueled by frustration and opposition to Israel’s military offensive in Gaza.
The strike was called in response to the US blocking a UN resolution advocating for a permanent ceasefire in the region. The move is seen as a symbolic and economic expression of solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Community Unites Against Israeli Military Operation
Dozens of individuals, including business owners, community leaders, and families, gathered along Palestine Way in Paterson. Draped in keffiyeh scarves against the cold, they heeded the call from Palestinian leaders to amplify their voices against the Israeli military operation.
The offensive commenced after a Hamas cross-border attack on October 7, leading to devastating consequences. Dr. Jabeen Ahmed, a local pharmacy owner and community member, expressed a range of emotions triggered by the distressing images emerging from Gaza.
The strike aims to convey a unified message that Muslims and the public at large stand in solidarity against the ongoing crisis, even if it means sacrificing business interests.
Diab Mustafa, Chairman of the Palestinian American Community Center in Clifton, emphasized that the strike seeks to raise awareness after the US vetoed a UN resolution for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire.”
Mustafa noted the importance of American Muslims speaking up, appealing for an end to the violence and a political solution that respects the rights of Palestinians.
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General Strike Sweeps New Jersey’s Arab American Communities
The strike coincides with similar actions in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Lebanon, reflecting a global outcry against the Israeli military campaign. Mustafa acknowledged the challenges of protesting Israel’s actions without being unfairly labeled as antisemitic.
He clarified that the community’s stance is not anti-Jewish, pointing out that some within the Jewish community have also advocated for a ceasefire. As the general strike takes hold, community leaders stress the human aspect of their protest, emphasizing empathy and compassion for those affected in Gaza.
However, the underlying political dimension remains, with individuals like Raed Odeh, deputy mayor of Paterson, conveying a message that their voices must be heard in upcoming elections.
The strike serves as a poignant demonstration of solidarity, uniting diverse communities in New Jersey against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East.
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