"Is the Idol of the West Still Worshipped?"

For centuries, the West has been reigning over the economic, political, and cultural throne of the world. Western countries have been a center of innovation and progress, prompting many individuals and societies in the Arab world to adopt the West as a model to emulate and a reference to seek guidance in achieving progress and civilization. However, this cultural, economic, and political integration with some Western countries raises tricky questions: Do Arabs still see the West as a reference for them? Does integration mean losing the ability to stand on their own and make independent decisions?

The bitter result is clear! The people of the South as a whole are drowning in the darkness of ignorance, and dependency on the West, causing them to lose awareness and fail to regain their original awareness, confined by the limited perspective beyond their narrow borders, serving the tyrants of the time and their allies more than the loss of awareness among the people. The result of all this was nothing but the continued subjugation of nations to slavery, governed by the shackles of ignorance and dependency.

One of the most prominent manifestations of Western integration is its powerful political and economic impact. Despite significant political transformations and massive revolutions that have swept through some Arab countries in recent years, many of these nations still rely almost entirely on economic and military support from Western countries.  This ongoing dependence may be the main reason for the inability to make independent decisions and the failure to end the ongoing conflicts in regions like Gaza.

Whoever thinks that the time of idols has passed is mistaken! And whoever thinks that the era of slavery has ended should also be aware that they are mistaken. Colonialism is still present, and intellectual and cultural colonization still make our regions their main target. The people are still ready to submit again if colonialism returns in its new form, without considering the price of the freedom they should enjoy. This is the reality we live in today, and it deserves to be strongly opposed with all determination and resolve.

In regions like Gaza, the ongoing conflict poses a real challenge to Arab identity and its ability to stand on its own and protect its interests. However, the continued reliance on Western support hinders the taking of bold steps to end these wars and achieve peace.

In this pivotal context, a grieving nation, suffering from the effects of conflict and marginalization, searching for itself in a time of despair. At a time when silence is considered a form of complacency, the voices of scholars and thinkers are being silenced, with attempts to restrain or recruit them, while extremist ideas continue to exert their influence.

In light of this harsh reality, Arab institutions appear paralyzed, education is in a state of continuous deterioration, and the media is subjected to bribery and manipulation. It's a grim picture of a reality filled with challenges and difficulties.

However, in light of this crisis, there is an urgent need to revive the spirit of struggle and liberation, along with finding new ways of thinking and acting. Arabs must draw strength from their great history and culture, and enhance their ability to innovate and renew, to build a future that reflects their values and principles.

It is the time to rebuild Arab identity and to build new relationships with the West based on cooperation and mutual respect. It is a long and difficult journey, but it is necessary to achieve the desired change and build a better future for future generations.