British Palestinians are feeling 'gaslit' and unable to speak out, says leading activist Sara Husseini. In a recent interview, Husseini highlighted the growing climate of hostility towards Palestinian identity and activism in the UK, particularly in the context of Israel's war on Gaza. She described how Palestinians are afraid to wear Palestinian symbols or display Arabic jewelry and keffiyehs in public, fearing silencing or punishment. Husseini emphasized the emotional toll of this situation, stating that many feel they are being 'gaslit' while their friends and families are being massacred back home.
The Nakba march, commemorating the 78th anniversary of the Nakba (the displacement of at least 700,000 Palestinians during the creation of Israel in 1948), has become a source of emotional survival for many Palestinians. However, it also comes amid mounting tensions over the future of pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Britain. Some Jewish groups and politicians are calling for tighter restrictions on marches, which Husseini rejects as 'hate marches'. She argues that the protests are actually a protest against war and genocide, and she believes they are being misrepresented to undermine the support for Palestinians.
Husseini also criticized the UK government's engagement with Palestinians, which she described as 'photo opportunities' rather than meaningful support. She pointed to Keir Starmer's visit to a Cardiff mosque and his comments in a 2023 LBC interview, where he appeared to defend Israel's actions in Gaza. Husseini believes that this framing of the conflict as 'Muslims against Jews' is part of a broader attempt to erase and dehumanize Palestinians, which is a prerequisite for genocide.
Despite the challenges, Husseini remains hopeful, drawing parallels between the Palestinian struggle and the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. She believes that their freedom is ultimately inevitable, and she continues to advocate for Palestinian rights and solidarity.
