June 14, 2024

 Demographics in Palestine

Throughout the Gaza Strip, the population has increased from 250,000 refugees in 1948 to 2.2 million today. The refugees from Israel in 1948 were just 700,000, twice the number of our Istrian refugees; then they became a continually growing multitude. In the end, the Jews expelled from Arab countries were approximately the same number: there was more or less an equal population exchange.

However, we must also add that in Israel, the Haredim (i.e., religious fundamentalists) have equally high growth rates. Their numbers are increasing alarmingly compared to the secular Ashkenazi Jews of European origin, who founded and still hold power. What will happen if the Haredim take power?

Additionally, Israelis of Middle Eastern origin are now almost twice as many as those of European origin. In short, Israel is becoming more and more a Middle Eastern country and less the Western country of Golda Meir.

Are we losing the "war of the wombs" in Palestine, and will we lose it worldwide as well? I fear so.