TYLER, Texas — The war in Israel has impacted multiple East Texans, who have either family or friends living in the Middle East.
Rafie Asad is a Palestinian who moved to the Piney Woods in the 1980s to study at UT Tyler. His father was born in Nablus, while his mom was born in Jerusalem. He said his family was eventually expelled from the city when Israel took control, and they settled in the neighboring country of Jordan. That’s where he and his siblings were born, and some of his family still reside.
After moving to America, Asad married and had children of his own. He is now a grandfather. Even though he's on the other side of the world, he said the recent declaration of war by Israel and the attacks from both sides of the conflict deeply saddens him and he worries about his siblings.
Israel is currently striking Gaza with multiple missiles after the group Hamas attacked the country. The Hamas have killed and kidnapped several civilians.
Asad said Gaza is a densely populated area and many civilians are suffering as they are caught in the crossfire. Currently, they are left with a lack of water, electricity, and other aid. He doesn’t condone the attack by Hamas but said that Palestinians have been so oppressed by the Israeli government. This could lead to others taking violent measures yet to be seen.
"That's part of the issue," Asad said. "Palestinians are living in Gaza, which is basically an open prison and there are blockades on all its borders. It has no airspace, their sea border is extremely limited, they can't even fish beyond a certain limit. And their land border is controlled by Israel."
He’s glad that the rest of the world is taking the time to get informed about the history that has led to this moment, but it's disheartening to see these violent attacks from both sides.
Asad said conflicts have occurred before but this time it’s different, and he hopes a peaceful solution can come soon.
"We're always hopeful that there is some kind of solution at this time," Asad said. "For example, we're all just sitting back and praying and hoping that there will be a stop to this madness. The killing to at least stop, but when we have nothing for those who have lost their lives, and their lives have been ruined."
He said when growing up in the area he didn’t see conflict between the religions as he was raised learning about multiple cultures. Asad hopes that one day there could be peace in the land, but he currently hurts for everyone caught in the path of these attack -- especially, the Palestinian children suffering in this war.