In an interview with Shia Followers, Chris Galloway, a professor from Massey University in New Zealand, said Ahed Tamimi “is a brave symbol of resistance against the institutionalized repression of the Israelis.”

“Tamimi is the most recent demonstration of how the Israelis react to those who stand up against their policies,” he added.

Here’s the full transcript of the interview:

U.S. President Donald Trump has recognized al-Quds (Jerusalem) as the capital of Israel. The move has sparked controversy in the region and also across the world. What’s your take on the consequences of this decision for the Muslim world?

Chris Galloway: The consequences of Trump’s decision for the Muslim world are the clear delineation of America’s position on the side of the Israelis. It does not matter that the Americans have said their decision does not imply resolution of final status issues. Their overall alignment is clear (as it has been for a long time, but without such stark clarity).

How should Muslims react to this? Is there unity among Muslim countries/nations in this regard?

Chris Galloway: Muslims should simply note this decision – protests will not sway either the Americans or the Israelis because there is a significant ideological impetus behind the decision. There does not appear to be unity among Muslim countries on the issue, with both the UAE and Saudi Arabia reportedly maintaining ties with Israel.

What’s your view on the activities of the Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement regarding Israel’s atrocities against Palestinians? Has the campaign been effective?

Chris Galloway: The BDS movement has been and is effective – the Israelis would not be lobbying against it so hard if it was not biting.

Ahed Tamimi has become the symbol of Palestinian resistance. What could you say about her trial and its significance?

Chris Galloway: Tamimi is a brave symbol of resistance against the institutionalized repression of the Israelis. One cannot long-term build a state on blatant injustice. Tamimi is the most recent demonstration of how the Israelis react to those who stand up against their policies.

 

Dr. Chris Galloway is head of the public relations programme, including the master in professional public relations, at the Massey Business School. He joins many years of experience as a journalist and senior public relations specialist to his academic interests in issue, reputation risk and crisis communication. He has taught at universities in both Australia and New Zealand.