Palestinian right to resist

The Palestinians' right to resist is a contentious issue deeply rooted in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, particularly in relation to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. This right, recognized under international law, is based on the principle of self-determination for all peoples under foreign and colonial rule.

The right to resist under international law does not, however, include violence against Israeli civilians.

Legal basis for the right to resist
Palestinians have a recognized right under international law to resist Israeli occupation under Protocol I of the Geneva Conventions. This right is affirmed in the context of the right of self-determination of all peoples under foreign and colonial rule. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has expressly affirmed the right of Palestinians to resist Israeli military occupation, including through armed struggle. General Assembly resolution A/RES/38/17 (22/11/1983) stated that it "Reaffirms ''the legitimacy of the struggle of peoples for their independence, territorial integrity, national unity and liberation from colonial domination, apartheid and foreign occupation by all available means, including armed struggle". ''

The right to self-defense
The question of self-defense in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is complex. Advocates argue that if Israel has the right to defend itself by launching airstrikes that destroy Palestinian homes, educational institutions, medical facilities and religious sites, then surely the Palestinians have the right to defend themselves from Israeli and settler violence.