Laith Zraikat

When I think of what is happening in Lebanon, Palestine, and of all that's been happening for the last 100 years, of what the Arab and Muslim world has suffered at the hands of Israel, the U.S., the Western world in general, and even its own corrupt leaders, I wonder what will happen "when" the tables do turn in the end.

History always repeats itself, and we have way too many lessons to learn from. Take Al-Andalus for example -Spain udder Muslim rule- Muslims ruled Spain for 800 years, that's 3.5 times the existence of the U.S. and 16 times the existence of Israel. Now nobody seems to remember the Spain was once a Muslim nation. Except for a few ancient buildings that still bear "westernized" Arabic names, it is as if we were never there.

800 years... that's almost half the time since Jesus.

Looking at those numbers, I am shocked at the arrogance in which those two countries behave- As if we are living the final stretch of existence. Looking at those numbers, the U.S. and Israel seem so insignificant, two temporary jagged drawings on the world map that will likely change.

I wonder, when the tables turn, and the balance of power is tipped in favor of those who were once weak, will the once-weak oppress the once-strong as was done to them? Will they massacre and butcher them as they were? I personally hope not.

I wonder, does this question ever cross the minds of the oppressors?