In contemplating objects and symbols of violence, one might readily think of a gun, a grenade, or perhaps a dagger — a common understanding. Yet, how did a seemingly harmless trio — brush, paint, and canvas —acquire a threatening aura? How did a piece of cloth become a synonym for terror in the eyes of any pro-Israeli? Perhaps it transcends the objects themselves. 

Consider this: how did the act of celebrating a country's heritage and culture transform into a perceived threat? The act of pulling down paintings, censoring artists, shadow-banning social media accounts and posts, and designating certain cultural emblems as manifestations of terrorism have got to get us to think about the motives behind such actions. Why? Because what better way to glorify the devil in heaven than by concealing the angels’ presence?

Following the launch of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood and the Israeli aggression on Gaza, a massive censorship campaign unfolded, specifically targeting all forms of pro-Palestinian expression. This suppression can be attributed to two primary factors: the evolution of cultural symbols into beacons of resistance and their deep-rooted connection to Palestinian heritage, a facet against which 'Israel' finds no equal.

The suppression of pro-Palestinian expression underscores a broader narrative: resistance against the oppressor, according to the Zionist and Western dictionary, is deemed an act of 'terrorism.' The rationale behind such categorization becomes clear — what better way to silence a prisoner than by cutting his tongue?

‘Al-Molatham’ censored 

Arab and Palestinian artists, especially those in countries advocating freedom for Palestine, often encounter restrictions and censorship on their artworks expressing views on the Palestinian cause, particularly during the ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza.

In a recent event, Christie's House New York withdrew two pieces by Lebanese artist Ayman Baalbaki from an auction scheduled for November 9 in London.

In an exclusive interview with Al Mayadeen English, the art collector of Ayman Baalbaki's art piece "Al-Moulatham," disclosed a disconcerting turn of events. Despite the initial encouragement to showcase the painting at Christie's in London, a subsequent communication from a representative at Christie's conveyed an unexpected decision to withdraw the artwork. The rationale behind this abrupt withdrawal was vaguely attributed to unspecified "complaints."

'Al-Moulatham' is an acrylic painting that portrays a man with his face covered by a koufiyyeh.

The collector expressed his disappointment and mentioned that the house suggested selling the pieces "separately outside the auction." 

Initially informed that the painting was stuck in cargo, he later learned it had to be withdrawn. When inquiring about auctioning the painting, “the representative encouraged its display, citing Middle Eastern buyers' interest”, he mentioned. Hence, this decision came amidst the Israeli aggression on Gaza and subsequent censorship campaigns.

“I no longer want to auction the painting – after all this, I’ve grown very attached to it,” the collector stated.

Aside from 'Al-Molatham', the other painting - named "anonymous" - features a man wearing a gas mask with a red headband on his forehead, bearing the word “thaeroun” (meaning “revolutionaries”) written in Arabic. 

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An emblem of revolution 

The koufiyyeh has evolved into an emblem of resistance, dating back to the era of British colonization, until today. It has also become an integral part of the nation's identity, embodying a rich history of struggle. But how did the koufiyyeh evolve into a national symbol of Palestinian resistance?

Its association with the country's history of struggle deepened in 1936 when Palestinians used it to conceal their identity after engaging in operations against the British colonizers. 

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Over time, the koufiyyeh gained popularity among activists worldwide, politicians participating in international forums, and individuals showing solidarity with the Palestinian cause. It has transformed from a mere head cover into a symbol of struggle, woven into the fabric of Palestinian heritage alongside elements like the knitting needle used for crafting the traditional Palestinian dress, the thobe. 

This sentiment spread during the First Intifada in 1987 and the Second Intifada in 2000. The koufiyyeh became a symbol of solidarity, worn in different countries, in support of the Palestinian resistance against the Israeli occupation.

A patriotic symbolism of Palestine 

During the Israeli aggression on Gaza, Western nations implemented bans on the koufiyyeh and the Palestinian flag in a bid to stifle pro-Palestinian expressions. Berlin authorities went as far as prohibiting students from wearing the koufiyyeh to school, and both France and the UK made protests and the display of the Palestinian flag illegal.

This aligns with a broader censorship campaign that extends to art and visuals. The pertinent question arises: why the ban on these symbols of Palestinian identity? As Gaza witnesses the Israeli massacre of Palestinians daily, individuals worldwide have spoken out in solidarity with Palestine. The actions taken against these symbols raise the question: since when has expressing solidarity with humanity become a crime?

Primarily, the evident motive appears to be Western nations seeking to suppress pro-Palestinian voices to maintain support for "Israel." However, a closer examination of the koufiyyeh reveals attempts to undermine its patriotic symbolism due to its significant national value.

Let's quickly run over the details -

- The olive leaves woven into the koufiyyeh are a representation of Palestine's rich heritage. The olive tree, known for its remarkable lifespan of 300 to 600 years, stands as a potent symbol of Palestinian resilience and an enduring connection to their land.

- The interconnected fishnet woven into the fabric of the koufiyyeh symbolically ties Palestine to the Mediterranean Sea, emphasizing the nation's historical relationship with its neighboring waters. Some interpret the fishnet as a unifying symbol, weaving Palestinians into a stronger collective identity.

- The distinct lines intricately etched onto the koufiyyeh carry the historical significance of trade routes throughout Palestine. These bold lines have evolved into an emblem of Palestinian identity, representing people who have and still confront adversity.

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What truly unsettles "Israel" is the potential for any object, idea, or symbol to shatter the very core of its existence, dismantling the falsehoods and fabricated narratives that seek to establish a "rightful" homeland on Palestinian soil. The koufiyyeh emerges as a challenge and rejects these deceitful constructions. Beyond its symbolic significance, the koufiyyeh serves as a constant reminder to "Israel" of its stark reality — a presence built upon occupation, usurpation, annihilation, and the machinery of war, all forged from the wreckage and blood of the indigenous people.

In its solid symbolism, the koufiyyeh confronts "Israel" with the unassailable truth that it is an occupying force, a usurper of lands, a harbinger of destruction, and a war apparatus sustained by the suffering and sacrifice of the original inhabitants. This powerful symbol underscores that the roots of the Palestinians are firmly embedded in the land, defying any attempt to erase the connection to their land.

The koufiyyeh stands as a testament to the enduring presence and resilience of the Palestinian people against the forces that seek to diminish their history, identity, and rightful place in their homeland, occupied Palestine.