The Foreign Body Narrative in the Middle East: Israel's Perceived Place

The question of why Israel is perceived as a foreign body in the Middle East has deep historical, cultural, and political roots. The narrative that Israel is not truly indigenous to the region is not new, and it persists due to a complex interplay of historical events, religious sentiments, and contemporary political dynamics.

Religious Context

One of the most significant factors in the foreign body narrative is the religious landscape of the Middle East. For over 14 centuries, the region has been predominantly Muslim. Today, nearly all countries in the Middle East, with the notable exception of Israel, are predominantly Muslim. This stark religious contrast has contributed to a perception that Israel is somehow foreign or out of place. Similar to the Western Christian perspective on Muslim countries, there is a sense among Middle Eastern Muslims that Israel does not belong because it is a non-Islamic presence in the region.

Cultural Divide

The cultural divide between Israel and its neighboring Arab countries further strengthens the foreign body narrative. Israel was founded by European Jews, who introduced a distinctly Westernized culture to the region. This cultural shift is viewed by many in the Arab world as a form of colonialism, albeit one rooted in Europe rather than the Arab world itself. The differences in religion, language, and cultural practices have led to a sense of alienation and estrangement, deepening the perception that Israel is an outsider in the Middle East.

Historical Tension and Exile

The historical roots of this foreign body narrative can be traced back to the early formation of the Jewish presence in the Middle East. According to many scholars, the roots of the Jewish people in the region are deep and ancient. However, the modern state of Israel, established in 1948, marked a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape. An estimated 700,000 Jews were refugees from Arab countries by the end of 1948, having been exiled from their homes. This exodus further reinforced the perception that Jews were newcomers and outsiders in the region. The displacement of Jews from Arab countries in 1948 and the ongoing conflict have deepened the sense that Israel is not a natural part of the Arab Middle East.

Contemporary Perspectives and Critiques

The persistent foreign body narrative within the Middle East is not without its own complexities. Some argue that Israel’s status as a democracy challenges the traditional monolithic vision of the region as a purely Muslim space. Israel’s democracy, which is at odds with many Muslim-majority countries, is seen by some as an affront to the existing political and social order. Moreover, the desire for a homogenous and singular form of Islam often leads to the rejection of states like Israel, which represent a multireligious and multicultural society.

The term “European Colonialization” is often used by critics to describe the establishment of Israel, blending the historical European presence in the region with the contemporary Jewish state. This terminology underscores the belief that Israel was created through an imposition of Western values, rather than an indigenous movement.

Additionally, the concept of “dhimmis” is often invoked, referring to a subordinated status that non-Muslims could have within a Muslim-dominated society. The desire for Jews to live as dhimmis, rather than as a free and independent nation, highlights a broad historical sentiment within the Arab world that resists the notion of a Jewish state.

Conclusion

The foreign body narrative in the Middle East surrounding Israel’s place in the region is multifaceted and enduring. It is influenced by religious, cultural, and historical contexts, as well as contemporary political dynamics. While some argue that Israel has deep historical roots in the region, the perception of Israel as a foreign presence continues to shape the ongoing Israeli-Arab conflict. Understanding and addressing these deeply ingrained narratives is crucial for fostering dialogue and reconciliation in the Middle East.