Several research centers, including al-Zaytouna Centre for Studies and Consultations in Beirut, along with Moroccan, Arab and international academic institutions, jointly organized an international conference on 27-28/4/2024, on Zoom, titled “The Palestine Issue Transformations and Their Impacts on Muslim and Western Worlds.” This international conference is part of a scholarly and forward-thinking engagement with the developments surrounding the Palestine issue, exploring its religious, historical, political and geo-strategic aspects. It particularly emphasizes the pivotal shifts occurring at the present moment, notably in light of the significant event of 7/10/2023, and the Israeli ferocious war on Gaza Strip, with its profound implications and potential medium and long-term repercussions.
The two-day conference hosted numerous researchers and experts, presenting 20 papers across four sessions led by esteemed academics and experts. Dr. Mohamed Taheri, the general coordinator, opened the event, followed by remarks from Dr. Muhammad Shaker Al-Mu’adani of the scientific committee. Dr. Idriss Jaradat spoke on behalf of external participants, and Souleymane Bounaamane represented those within Morocco.
The conference featured an opening lecture delivered by Sheikh Dr. Ekrima Sabri, the imam of al-Aqsa Mosque and head of the Supreme Muslim Council in Jerusalem, titled “Palestine from a religious perspective.” Sabri emphasized the importance and prominence of al-Aqsa Mosque within the Arab and Muslim Ummah (Muslim nation), drew attention to Judaization schemes, attacks and incursions aimed at the mosque, and stressed the necessity of safeguarding it.
The conference addressed seven key themes:
1. The Palestine Issue: Concept, Contexts and Relationships.
2. Palestine: Historical Roots and Key Milestones.
3. The Palestine Issue: Dimensions, Areas and Problems.
4. The Palestine Issue: Transformations, Impact and Manifestations.
5. The Palestine Issue: Roles, Initiatives and Duties.
6. The Palestine Issue: The Future, Proposals and Follow-ups.
7. Palestine and the Zionist and Jewish Schemes.
The third session was moderated by Dr. Basem Elkassem, head of al-Zaytouna’s Archives and Information Department. Researchers presented papers on the future of the Palestine issue in cultural contexts, Israeli psychological warfare during Operation al-Aqsa Flood, Al-Aqsa flood portrayal in cartoons, literature’s role through the works of novelist Jabra Ibrahim Jabra, and the Gaza war’s impact on global values.
The conference papers provided valuable scientific insights and information, covering a broad range of themes. Attendees engaged in productive interactions, facilitated by effective event management by the organizers.
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