Arab musicians’ songs about Gaza mirror public sympathy with Palestinians
Music has become a powerful tool for expression and solidarity in the Middle East as artists from various countries respond to the ongoing conflict in Gaza through their work. These songs, ranging in tone from defiant anthems praising Hamas to poignant ballads mourning the loss of life, are not only climbing the charts but also reigniting discussions on the Palestinian cause in Arab popular culture. Egyptian wedding singer Rudy and her songs lauding Hamas spokesman Abu Obaida have captured widespread attention, symbolizing the collective sentiment of resistance and frustration towards the support Israel receives from the US and Europe. Amidst a backdrop of devastating human tolls reported by both sides, the role of music in shaping public opinion and keeping the plight of Gaza in the global consciousness is undeniable.
From Cairo to Jordan, Arab musicians are channeling their emotions into music that speaks volumes about the Palestinian cause. Rudy’s performances at weddings have turned into venues of political expression, with her song about Abu Obaida resonating deeply among attendees. In Jordan, a collaboration among artists from different Arab nations resulted in a song dreaming of Palestinian return, garnering millions of views and sparking conversation on social media. These musical expressions reflect a broader sentiment of defiance against Israel’s military actions and solidarity with the Palestinian people, underscored by recent polls indicating strong Arab support for the Palestinian cause and opposition to normalization efforts with Israel, bnnbreaking.com reported.
The surge in popularity for songs sympathizing with the Palestinians or encouraging Hamas is a testament to the significant role music plays in shaping and reflecting public opinion. Artist such as Lebanese rapper Jaafar Touffar and Kuwaiti singer Humood Al Khuder are using their platforms to draw attention to the conflict and its wider implications. The imagery and lyrics in their work evoke powerful symbols of Palestinian resistance and resilience, from the keys to lost homes to the iconic kuffiyah. Polls conducted in the region show a clear consensus viewing the conflict as a legitimate resistance against occupation, with a significant majority considering the US and Israel as the primary threats to regional security.
Despite the unlikely impact of their music on the political landscape or the decisions of Arab leaders, artists like Ghaliaa Chaker, who participated in the collaborative song ‘Returning’ recorded in Jordan, aim to keep international attention focused on Gaza’s plight. The collective effort of these musicians goes beyond entertainment or artistic expression; it is a call to action and a reminder of the ongoing human tragedy unfolding in Gaza. As Lebanese musician Zeid Hamdan aptly puts it, his performances are no longer about self-promotion but about spreading a message of urgency and solidarity. Through their art, these artists hope to ensure that the world continues to talk about and remember the situation in Gaza, keeping the flames of awareness and empathy alive.