4 of 17

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

the camp". The frustration and anger that many of the refugees feel is matched by the same distrust and resentment that is the common reaction of the Lebanese people to the Palestinians themselves

The conflict will not be resolved by the Lebanese action of introducing military might, sieging camps and waging war upon an unseen enemy. We need more communication, more patience and more understanding between the Lebanese people and the refugees. That people do not always share the same views, traits, religion or culture may mean that they are different, but certainly not inferior'. What we require is initiative from the Palestinian camps- a central leadership that actively seeks to dissuade the few who foment disharmony and wage war against the innocent.

Many Palestinians in the largest refugee camp, Burj al-Barajineh are angry and resentful because it appears that innocent people are dying rather than the Fatah al-Islam members. Given the similar sentiments that many express in the Palestinian camps in Lebanon, it is very surprising that there still remains no true unity, no true leadership body and no active movement to ferret out those who seek to create conflict, disharmony and chaos within Lebanon.

The international community as a whole can do a lot to foster greater communication and unity not only between the Palestinians in the different refugee camps, but also between these camps and the Lebanese government and people. We need aid packages for many who live in poverty in squalid conditions within refugee camps. We need financial support not only for these refugees but also for the Lebanese government. Most importantly, we need international unity to help resolve this conflict which is not only wreaking havoc on Lebanon, but has the potential to serve as a brooding ground for further discontent.

Lebanon needs to open more job opportunities for Palestinian refugees and needs to try to -if not overcome- then at least suppress the anti-Palestinian mentality that many seem to be developing. The Palestinian refugees may not be entirely innocent, but neither are they directly responsible for the burgeoning conflict in Lebanon. Further understanding, communication, empathy and international support are vital in ensuring that not only is this intensifying conflict brought to swift and satisfactory conclusion, but also in maintaining the survival of what is one of the most beautiful countries in the Middle East.

Achieving peace through war is impossible.

Yet peace through international unity, compassion and courage is more than possible.

It is inevitable.

Learn more about this author, Anthony Khoo.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about How should Lebanon address its "Palestinian issue" and what can the international community do to help??
We want to hear your view. Write now!