First, let’s be clear on some points. Islam set in motion a system to abolish slavery over 1,200 years before the slave trade reached its peak in the western world.

First, let’s be clear on some points. Islam set in motion a system to abolish slavery over 1,200 years before the slave trade reached its peak in the western world. Freeing the slaves, who were owned by pagan Arab tribes, was a recurring theme in the Koran

Some will chastise Hamas’s new strategy, others will praise its return to common sense. But for Hamas and Palestinian resistance in Gaza, it is a mere matter of survival

The question remains: how long will it be before Cairo understands that violence cannot resolve what are fundamentality political and socio-economic problems?

Don’t let the refugee become who you are, as you are so much more

In terms of losses in human lives, 2014 has been a horrific year for Palestinians, but there are some very good signs that things are changing

As Bush’s notorious legacy has proven, while war-induced fear and vain patriotism may keep a leader in office long enough, the terrible consequences of unchecked violence shall be felt for many years to come

It is still not about Islam, even if the media and militants attacking western targets say so

The problem with Abbas, however, is bigger than Abbas himself. The ailment lies in the very political culture and class that sustained and benefited from political corruption for over 20 years

Remain humble, and always welcome the opportunity to learn new things

To an extent, 2014 has been a year of clarity for those keen to understand the reality of the ‘Palestinian-Israeli conflict’ but were sincerely confused by the contrasting narratives