Israel’s war on Gaza spurs Vietnam’s youth to rediscover solidarity with Palestinians and a shared revolutionary past.
The recent conflict between Israel and Gaza has sparked a renewed sense of solidarity among Vietnam’s youth, who are drawing parallels between the struggles of the Palestinian people and their own history of resistance against colonial powers. This newfound connection has led to a resurgence of interest in Vietnam’s revolutionary past and a reevaluation of the country’s foreign policy towards the Middle East.
Vietnam has a long history of anti-colonial struggle, having fought against French, Japanese, and American imperialism in the 20th century. The country’s successful resistance against these foreign powers has made it a symbol of national liberation and self-determination for people around the world, including the Palestinians. Many young Vietnamese see the Palestinian struggle as a continuation of their own fight for independence and sovereignty.
The recent violence in Gaza, which saw Israeli airstrikes kill hundreds of Palestinians, including women and children, has reignited anger and frustration among Vietnam’s youth. Images of destruction and suffering have circulated widely on social media, prompting many young people to speak out against Israel’s actions and show their support for the Palestinian cause.
One of the key factors driving this solidarity is the historical connection between Vietnam and Palestine. During the Vietnam War, the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) provided political and material support to the Vietnamese people in their fight against American aggression. This solidarity was reciprocated by Vietnam, which supported the Palestinian cause at international forums and provided aid to Palestinian refugees.
The shared history of struggle and mutual support between Vietnam and Palestine has not been forgotten by the younger generation in Vietnam. Many young people are now rediscovering this history and drawing inspiration from it to stand in solidarity with the Palestinians in their time of need.
In addition to historical ties, there are also ideological similarities between Vietnam’s communist government and the Palestinian resistance movements. Both groups have a long history of fighting against imperialism and colonialism, and both have espoused socialist principles as a means of achieving social justice and equality for their people.
The renewed sense of solidarity with the Palestinians has also prompted a reevaluation of Vietnam’s foreign policy towards the Middle East. In recent years, Vietnam has sought to strengthen its ties with Israel, viewing the country as a potential partner for economic development and technological cooperation. However, the recent violence in Gaza has prompted many young Vietnamese to question this relationship and call for a more principled stance in support of the Palestinian people.
Despite the challenges of distance and cultural differences, Vietnam’s youth are finding ways to express their solidarity with the Palestinians. Social media has played a crucial role in connecting young people in Vietnam with activists and organizations in Palestine, allowing them to share information, raise awareness, and coordinate actions in support of the Palestinian cause.
The renewed sense of solidarity between Vietnam and Palestine is a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds of friendship and shared struggle that exist between peoples fighting for freedom and justice around the world. As Vietnam’s youth continue to rediscover their revolutionary past and stand in solidarity with the Palestinians, they are reaffirming their commitment to the principles of self-determination, solidarity, and social justice that have guided their country’s history of resistance against colonialism and imperialism.