During a Black Friday outing, President Joe Biden was observed with a book that critiques Israel's policies, stirring debate among observers, Fox News reported.

President Biden was seen with "The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine" by Rashid Khalidi, a title suggesting a controversial perspective on Israeli history.

President Biden picked up Rashid Khalidi's "The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine: A History of Settler Colonialism and Resistance, 1917-2017" while at Nantucket Bookworks. The book's viewpoint challenges traditional narratives by framing the conflict as colonial.

Rashid Khalidi, a professor of Palestinian and Lebanese descent at Columbia University, authored the book in 2020. It arrived before a series of peace agreements involving Israel were brokered by the Trump administration.

The book critically assesses U.S. moves like moving the embassy to Jerusalem and supporting Israel's claim over the Golan Heights, offering a stark contrast to U.S. policies Biden has previously supported.

Background Of Author And Book

Khalidi’s work details a long history of conflict and resistance in Palestine, drawing on his extensive academic background. His narrative provides a stark portrayal of the struggles faced by Palestinians.

He offers a detailed analysis, suggesting that many involved parties have treated the conflict as a war to displace Palestinians. This is most evident in his critiques of the U.S. policy under former President Trump.

Khalidi has been vocal on platforms like podcasts, where he has expressed confusion over the political objectives of Israeli actions in Gaza, labeling them as ethnic cleansing.

Public And Political Reactions

Biden, despite his history of support for Israel, has faced criticism from both pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian groups. His possession of this book could further complicate his political stance and public perception.

It remains unknown whether Biden purchased the book or if it was given to him during his visit to the bookstore. This detail could influence interpretations of his intentions.

The incident has prompted discussions across the political spectrum, with various groups weighing in on what Biden’s book choice suggests about his administration's policies.

Critical Views Expressed In The Book

Khalidi’s book describes the modern history of Palestine as a colonial war. This perspective is encapsulated in quotes from the book, emphasizing the struggle against foreign domination.

One poignant example from the book is the First Intifada, which Khalidi describes as a significant victory for Palestinian resistance. This kind of framing provides a lens through which the current conflict is often viewed.

In terms of U.S. policy, the book is critical of strategic decisions such as recognizing Israeli sovereignty over contested territories, a point of contention for many in the international community.

Khalidi's Commentary On Current Affairs

Rashid Khalidi has expressed skepticism about the media coverage and political objectives of Israeli policies. His critique extends to the portrayal of the conflict in the media, particularly the Israeli press.

In his conversations on public platforms, he has suggested that the actions in Gaza resemble forced relocation rather than a clear political strategy. His comments reflect a critical view of how Palestinian issues are discussed and handled globally.

"I do not speak to the Post or the Times, but my reaction is that this is four years too late," Khalidi said, reflecting on the timing of the current political discourse regarding his book.