Thread by @Istanbultelaviv

As a historian of Israel/Palestine--and a human--I would like to discuss @RashidaTlaib's recent statement about the Holocaust and its relation to the Palestinians. I think it is important to first watch it, to understand what we are talking about.

I think we should first start off saying that calling her words antisemitic is absolutely absurd. Some people as well have been quick to judge her portrayal of history as manipulative--or lacking a general understanding. However, once put in context, I think this too is mistaken.

I was even more shocked by twisting of her words. I'll start first with what should be obvious: There was nothing malicious about her statement. Exactly opposite: She showed great empathy; she was honest and exposed a real human side of her-she was not speaking as a politician.

Obviously, for many Palestinians, the Holocaust hovers over their own narrative. Over the years, this has led to denial of Holocaust+conspiracy theories. However, many Palestinians over years have also internalized the Holocaust. Have learned to understand it on its own accord.

Clearly @RashidaTlaib recognizes tragedy of Holocaust. However, to think for a second her portrayal of how the Holocaust transformed lives of Palestinians for the worse is incorrect, one would have to be delusional: The aftermath of the Jewish tragedy forever changed their lives.

And, its this tightrope Tlaib went out on. Now if we listen closely, we see the empathy, where she basically says that even if this turned into a tragedy for Palestinians she understands why the need for a safe haven for Jews. She also rightly says this was "forced" upon them.

Now some historians of Israel rightly point out that Israel was well on way to statehood even before the Holocaust. True, few can argue against that the Yishuv-the Jewish political community--in Palestine was greatly independent before this--I even bring this back to Ottoman era.

However, one would-- once again I state--delusional not to see connection between the Holocaust+founding of the state. There is no doubt that the state was formed when it was due to the Holocaust--even Israeli history incorporates it: the Holocaust--versus--redemption of Israel.

So what is "calming feeling" she receives when she speaks of the tragedy of the Holocaust? I interpreted it as simply saying that in some twisted way, even if her and her people suffered from this she is satisfied that this was done at least in the name of helping another people.

So I thank @RashidaTlaib for going out on limb-hitting at heart of conflict. She clearly states her support for "one-state" is out of love+it was love expressed here. Sadly, in haste to condemn her people missed she was talking about reconciliation--a hope for a better future.

As Israelis (and Jews focused on Israel) we need to seize moments of dialogue--regardless if we are for "One" or "Two" states. Lets not expect beautifully polished statements, but rather ones that are sincere. And, to end, lets remember, that this is indeed is a painful process.