Israel vs. Palestine: How to Destroy Every Pro-Palestine Argument

Across college campuses, city streets, and social media, calls for a free Palestine dominate discussions on the Israel-Gaza conflict. Activists often portray Palestinians as victims, Hamas as a resistance group, and Israel as the sole aggressor. However, a closer examination of history and statistics reveals that many of these assertions are misleading. Here are five prevalent misconceptions:

5. The Palestinian People Are Innocent Victims

A common claim is that Gaza’s residents bear no responsibility for Hamas’s governance. While not every Palestinian is a terrorist, it’s inaccurate to suggest that the population is entirely uninvolved.

Hamas gained control through elections, not a violent coup. In 2006, 44.45% of Gazans voted for Hamas, granting the group a majority in the Palestinian Legislative Council. Since then, no new elections have occurred, and Hamas has maintained strict control.

Recent polls indicate continued support for Hamas among Palestinians. A survey conducted in March 2024 revealed that 71% of Palestinians endorsed Hamas’s decision to attack Israel on October 7, 2023. Additionally, 59% believed Hamas should govern Gaza, and 70% were satisfied with its role during the conflict.

Civilians in Gaza also play active roles in the conflict. Reports have documented families hiding terrorists and communities celebrating attacks on Israelis. For instance, after the October 7 attacks, there were public celebrations in Gaza; a civilian by day and terrorist by night is still a terrorist. While Gaza’s suffering is undeniable, attributing it solely to Israeli actions overlooks the societal factors that support and tolerate terrorism.

4. Hamas Wants a Ceasefire

Hamas and its supporters often claim to seek peace, but historical patterns suggest otherwise. The group has frequently violated ceasefires. For example, during the 2014 conflict, Hamas breached multiple ceasefires by launching rockets into Israel.

The October 7, 2023, attacks themselves were a violation, occurring during a period of relative calm. Furthermore, funds intended for humanitarian aid have been diverted by Hamas for military infrastructure. A 2023 report highlighted that significant portions of international aid were used to build tunnels and purchase weapons, rather than assist civilians.

Current hostage negotiations are also problematic. Israel has been compelled to exchange convicted terrorists—most responsible for civilian deaths—for innocent hostages, including children. As of February 2025, over 730 Palestinian prisoners have been released in exchange for just 21 Israeli hostages.

Israel has consistently shown a willingness to end conflicts when genuine peace is achievable. In contrast, Hamas’s actions indicate a preference for continued aggression.

3. Gaza Was Never Given a Chance to Become a State

Another misconception is that Gaza, or a Palestinian state, was never given a fair opportunity to exist. Historical records demonstrate that Palestinian leaders have declined multiple offers for statehood.

In 1947, the UN proposed a two-state solution, which Jewish leaders accepted, but Arab leaders rejected, leading to war. Offers in 2000 and 2008, which included nearly all of the West Bank and Gaza, were also refused by Palestinian authorities.

Israel’s 2005 withdrawal from Gaza was intended to grant Palestinians self-governance. Instead of developing infrastructure and the economy, Hamas transformed Gaza into a base for terrorist activities. For example, funds and materials designated for civilian projects were redirected to construct tunnels and manufacture rockets.

The absence of a Palestinian state today stems from leadership choices favoring violence over peaceful state-building.

2. Gaza Is in Famine

Activists often assert that Gaza faces a humanitarian crisis characterized by mass starvation. While the conflict has led to significant hardships, claims of widespread famine are unsubstantiated.

Prior to the war, Gaza had notable health challenges, with a 2019 report indicating that nearly 40% of adults were overweight. Additionally, over 90% of households owned mobile phones, suggesting access to certain modern amenities.

During the current conflict, Israel has facilitated humanitarian aid deliveries, despite concerns that Hamas misappropriated these resources. The root causes of Gaza’s hardships are complex, involving governance issues and resource misallocation by Hamas, rather than solely external blockades.

1. Palestine Was Its Own State Before Israel “Invaded” It

A prevalent myth is that Palestine was an independent nation before Israel’s establishment and that Jews invaded and occupied the land. Historically, this is inaccurate.

Before Israel’s founding in 1948, the region was part of the Ottoman Empire and later under British mandate. There was never a sovereign Palestinian state with defined borders and government institutions.

The term “Palestinian” gained widespread usage only in the mid-20th century. In the early 1900s, “Palestinian” often referred to Jewish inhabitants of the area, while Arab residents identified with broader regional affiliations.

Understanding these misconceptions is crucial. Misinformation about the Israel-Gaza conflict fuels further animosity and hinders prospects for peace. A fact-based perspective reveals that Hamas’s actions significantly contribute to the ongoing suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians.