(An analytical op-ed)
By Dr. Lokman Khan
Introduction
Throughout history, the Jewish people have endured repeated waves of persecution, displacement, and marginalization. From the Roman Empire to medieval Europe to Nazi Germany, they were often victims of unspeakable atrocities. Ironically, in many of those dark chapters, it was the Muslim world that provided them shelter and dignity. Today, that history seems to be forgotten as the Israeli state, in its pursuit of Zionist objectives, wages war on Muslims—particularly the Palestinians of Gaza. This article delves into the evolution of the Jewish-Muslim relationship, from historical protection to present-day hostility, and questions how a people once victimized can become perpetrators of oppression.
Judaism and Its Historical Journey
Judaism is one of the oldest monotheistic religions in the world, dating back thousands of years. It traces its roots to Prophet Moses (Musa, peace be upon him), with its core scriptures being the Torah and Talmud. The Jewish identity has always been tightly bound to both religious and ethnic lines, with a deep historical attachment to the land of Palestine, which they call the Land of Israel.
For centuries, Jews were scattered across empires due to conquests and forced exile—Babylonians, Romans, and later, Christian Europe played pivotal roles in this diaspora. The medieval period in Europe was especially brutal: Jews were blamed for the crucifixion of Jesus and subjected to pogroms, expulsions, and forced conversions.
Muslims as Protectors and Allies
In stark contrast to their treatment in Christian lands, Jews often found refuge in Muslim empires. When Muslims conquered Spain in 711 CE, the Islamic period in Andalusia became a golden age for Jewish culture, science, and philosophy. After the expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492, many were welcomed by the Ottoman Empire. Sultan Bayezid II famously invited the expelled Jews to settle in his domains, calling the Spanish monarchs “fools” for banishing such productive citizens.
Jews lived peacefully in Islamic lands like Turkey, Iraq, Morocco, and Persia for centuries, enjoying religious freedom, economic opportunity, and legal protection under Islamic law (dhimmi status). In many cases, they rose to high positions in government and finance.
The Rise of Zionism and the Turning Point
In the late 19th century, political Zionism emerged in Europe as a response to persistent anti-Semitism. Theodor Herzl, the father of modern Zionism, envisioned the establishment of a Jewish homeland—eventually pinpointing Palestine as the destination. At that time, Palestine was predominantly Arab and Muslim, part of the Ottoman Empire.
Zionism was initially a secular nationalist movement, but over time, it adopted religious justifications and militaristic means. With the establishment of Israel in 1948, following the forced displacement (Nakba) of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, a new chapter of conflict began between Jews and Muslims—especially Arabs. The very lands where Muslims had once given Jews shelter had now become a battleground for dispossession.
From Victims to Perpetrators: A Moral Collapse?
Perhaps one of the most painful ironies of modern history is this: the people who suffered genocide during the Holocaust now stand accused of committing atrocities against another marginalized population. Since October 2023, the Israeli onslaught on Gaza has led to what many international observers and human rights groups are calling a humanitarian catastrophe. Entire neighborhoods have been flattened, hospitals bombed, children orphaned, and food and medical supplies choked by a blockade.
The Holocaust was meant to teach the world: “Never Again.” But today, under the eyes of that very lesson, Israel has turned Gaza into a graveyard. What moral high ground remains when the survivors of one genocide participate in what many describe as another?
Who Are the Jews’ Friends and Foes?
- Historical Enemies of Jews: Primarily Christian monarchies and the Catholic Church in Europe, responsible for crusades, inquisitions, ghettos, and genocide.
- Historical Friends: Muslim rulers of Andalusia, the Ottomans, North African and Middle Eastern states.
- Modern Allies: The United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and some authoritarian Arab states like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who have normalized relations with Israel for political and economic interests.
- Modern Opponents: Largely the Muslim world, particularly the Palestinian resistance and civil society supporters of Palestinian liberation.
Conclusion
One of history’s greatest lessons is that victims must never become oppressors. The Jewish people’s suffering should have made them the strongest advocates for justice. Instead, through the militarized state of Israel, many are now complicit in systems of occupation, ethnic cleansing, and apartheid.
Islam teaches: “If anyone kills a person—unless in retribution for murder or spreading corruption in the land—it is as if he has slain all mankind.” (Qur’an, Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:32) This is not a verse for Muslims alone; it is a universal moral principle.
History does not always punish directly, but it never forgets. If the Jewish people forget who gave them shelter when they were persecuted, they risk becoming what they once feared most.
Final Thought
To remain silent in the face of injustice is to side with the oppressor. It is time for Jewish voices of conscience—and their global allies—to speak out. The legacy of Jewish suffering should not be manipulated to justify Palestinian suffering. True justice is not tribal; it is universal. And only by honoring that truth can peace ever be achieved in the Holy Land.
LK INNOVATE 
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