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From Despair to Strategy: Why ‘Something’ Is Not Enough in Retaliation to Israel

“Isn’t launching a few rockets better than doing nothing at all? At least it shows we’re not completely passive in the face of Israeli aggression.”

“If we don’t respond at all, won’t that send a message of weakness and encourage more attacks from Israel?”

“What other options do we have when we’re facing overwhelming military power? We need to show defiance in some form, even if it’s symbolic.”

“We may not have the resources for large-scale resistance, but at least these small acts of retaliation keep the spirit of resistance alive.”

“It’s better to do something, however small, than to sit by and let the world believe we’ve surrendered or accepted defeat.”          

Getting retribution, the sincerity of the resistance, the capability of the resistance, the power dynamics in the region, and the political wings of the resistance—when dealing with the ongoing Israeli aggression and trying to find a solution to this aggression, these elements cannot be conflated into one issue. Each must be examined in its own right. The sincerity of a person resisting Israeli occupation cannot be conflated with the political aspects of the resistance, particularly those willing to come to the table with the aggressor. Likewise, the capability of the resistance cannot be conflated with their will and sincere desire to end the occupation of oppressed peoples. In this light, the article will focus on the very pertinent issue of “at least something is better than nothing.”

In the complex and volatile landscape of the Middle East, the phrase “At least something is better than nothing” often surfaces in discussions about the ongoing conflict between Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, and Yemen. Following Israeli airstrikes or military aggression, it’s not uncommon to see symbolic retaliatory actions, such as Iran or Hezbollah firing a few rockets in Israel’s direction. For people across the globe who are eager to see an end to this ongoing brutality, this minimal response is often seen as a necessary act of defiance—”better than nothing.” However, this mindset reflects a dangerous resignation, born out of deep despair, which obscures the root causes of the conflict.

Retaliation as Symbolism Rather Than Strategy

When Israel strikes targets in Lebanon, often killing civilians and causing severe infrastructural damage, Iran or Hezbollah’s response might involve the launch of a few rockets into Israel. These retaliatory acts are often lauded by their supporters as necessary measures, proof that they won’t stand idly by in the face of aggression. The raw feeling of hurting the aggressor is born out of a genuine love for the cause of Palestine and the hardships it has endured over the decades. However, this raw emotion, if not channelled into a correct and strategic response, can end up being problematic. While it’s understandable to feel satisfaction at, for example, Starbucks reporting losses due to a boycott for Gaza, multinationals losing money because sea routes are intercepted, or McDonald’s branches having to shut down due to boycotts, these are rightly placed feelings of defiance. Yet, these actions and sentiments, while emotionally gratifying, do little to alter the power dynamics in the region or serve as a real solution to the conflict.

The rockets, typically aimed without precision and often intercepted or causing minimal damage, seem more of a gesture of resistance than a genuine attempt at military engagement. Yet many around the world—and even within the region—justify this by saying, “At least something is better than nothing.” In this mindset, the mere act of responding, however ineffective, is seen as better than complete inaction.

But this kind of reasoning overlooks the bigger picture. These small retaliatory efforts do not alter the course of the conflict. They do not prevent future Israeli airstrikes, nor do they advance the cause of those who launch them. They serve as momentary emotional relief but accomplish little in terms of actual retribution or deterrence.

The Mindset of Despair and Hopelessness

The phrase “At least something is better than nothing” in this context reveals a deeper psychological issue. After many decades of Israeli aggression, many people globally have fallen into a state of deep despair and resignation. The continuous cycle of conflict, sanctions, and hardship has led many to lose hope in the possibility of achieving a real, lasting solution. Faced with the overwhelming military and political power of Israel and its Western allies, these populations often feel cornered and powerless, resigned to accepting symbolic gestures as the only form of resistance.

In such circumstances, even the smallest act of defiance—like launching a few rockets—can feel like a victory. It creates the illusion of agency in an otherwise helpless situation. But this illusion is dangerous. It fosters a mindset that accepts minimal, ineffective actions as enough. The despair runs so deep that many have stopped believing in the possibility of substantial change or meaningful victories. They settle for gestures, thinking that these minor acts are all that’s left to offer.

The Human Toll: Disproportionate Suffering

One of the most tragic aspects of this “something is better than nothing” mindset is how it allows for the disproportionate suffering on the other side to be glossed over. In Gaza and Lebanon, for example, Israeli airstrikes often result in massive civilian casualties and widespread destruction. The death toll can be high, and the damage to infrastructure can set the country back decades. Yet, in response, a few rockets are launched into Israel, causing minimal damage, if any at all.

For those living under the shadow of Israeli military power, this dynamic is painfully familiar. They suffer immense losses, but their retaliation is largely ineffective. And while some may see the rockets as necessary, the human cost remains tragically high. This is the harsh reality behind the phrase “something is better than nothing”—that “something” may not be nearly enough to justify the horrific toll on civilian lives.

Accepting Ineffective Retaliation Hinders Real Solutions

Perhaps the most significant problem with this mindset is that it perpetuates inaction. By settling for small, ineffective retaliations, the deeper, systemic issues driving the conflict remain unresolved. The Israeli aggression, colonial settlements, the treatment of Palestinians, and the influence of external powers such as the U.S. in the region are not addressed through token gestures. These issues require sustained efforts, comprehensive strategies, and a willingness to engage in real change.

Yet, the acceptance of “something” as enough stops progress in its tracks. It allows those invested in Palestine to avoid dealing with the root causes of the conflict. Why push for the liberation of Palestine or the ejection of U.S. hegemony in the Middle East when a few rockets can serve as a temporary bandage for the deep wounds? This logic prevents the exploration of long-term solutions and locks everyone into a vicious cycle of symbolic retaliation.

Those who propose an end to the “at least something is better than nothing” attitude are often accused of being merely talkative or, at worst, devoid of viable solutions. However, what should concern Israel and the U.S. most about this ongoing conflict is not merely the resistance movements within the region—Israel has nearly depleted the capabilities of these groups through extensive military aggression. Instead, the biggest worry for Israel lies in the potential emergence of a unified state where the basis of governance is rooted in Islamic principles, rather than the post-Balfour constructs that currently define the region. This concern was evident at the start of the current conflict when U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken embarked on a tour of the Middle East. He wasn’t questioning the loyalty of the region’s rulers, but rather what lies beneath—the masses, filled with anger, injustice, and a strong belief in Allah and His solution. Blinken sought assurances from these rulers that they had their populations under control, knowing full well that the real threat to the status quo is not the governments, but the people who are driven by faith and a yearning for justice. Such a transformation could radically alter the power dynamics in the Middle East, favouring the masses and empowering them to pursue a future that aligns with their cultural and ideological beliefs. This shift would threaten the existing geopolitical order and challenge the long-standing hegemony of Israel and its Western allies.

The Greatest Threat to Israel and the U.S.: Regime Change in the Muslim World

The greatest threat to Israel and the U.S. is not the resistance movements within the region, but the prospect of regime change in the Muslim world. A truly independent state that carves its own political destiny based on Islamic principles has the potential to bring genuine peace and stability to the region—and beyond. For regime change to take place, it is not simply a matter of millions taking to the streets. Instead, the masses must reach out to their relatives in the military and urge them to remove rulers who care more about their own wealth and power than the well-being of their people.

In reality, it is well known that in many Muslim countries, having a General or Major from the Army in the family often means things can be accomplished faster—whether it’s installing a phone line, securing electricity for a village, or settling a land dispute. But rather than relying on these connections for small favours, why not use them to solve the greatest problem of all—the corrupt rulers who continue to line their pockets while ignoring the needs of their citizens? The real work of the masses should be to approach their relatives in the military and resolve the dispute with these rulers by removing them and appointing sincere leadership. This would transform the political landscape of the Muslim world and give people the governance they deserve.

The Mindset Needed for Change

Achieving true change in the Muslim world, particularly in the face of entrenched rulers and foreign influence, requires a mindset deeply grounded in Islamic principles and steadfast belief. The people must remain resilient, firm in their faith, and unwavering in their pursuit of justice, even if the path is long and difficult. This approach is not a matter of quick fixes or symbolic gestures but of steadfast conviction in the solutions provided by Allah.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“O you who have believed, if you support Allah, He will support you and plant firmly your feet.”
(Surah Muhammad, 47:7)

This verse emphasises that real change and success come through supporting Allah’s commands and staying true to His path. The people’s unwavering commitment to Islamic solutions is essential, and they must rid themselves of despair and hopelessness, trusting that Allah’s support will come when they hold firm to their faith and actions.

Patience and perseverance are key, even when the odds seem insurmountable. As Allah reminds us in the Qur’an:

“O you who have believed, persevere and endure and remain stationed and fear Allah that you may be successful.”
(Surah Aal-E-Imran, 3:200)

This verse serves as a reminder that success will come through perseverance, enduring hardship, and remaining steadfast in the face of adversity. Real change will not come from momentary outbursts or short-term actions, but from sustained efforts based on firm belief in Allah’s guidance.

It is also essential to understand that Allah’s help and victory are promised to those who stay true to the path of Islam, no matter how long it takes. As Allah says:

“And be patient, for indeed, Allah does not allow the reward of those who do good to be lost.”
(Surah Hud, 11:115)

This mindset of patience, perseverance, and faith in Allah’s plan is crucial. The solution is not to abandon Allah’s commands when things get tough or when the road seems long. It’s about continuing the struggle, knowing that the ultimate victory is with those who remain steadfast in their belief in Allah and His divine solutions.

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