An-Najah News -
By Dr. Nasser Alkidwa
(Translation from the original Arabic article (published on 22 April 2020)
A New Virus
Viruses, according to general knowledge, cannot be resisted or treated with antibiotics, as are bacterial infections. So far, there is no promising treatment and resistance is dependent upon humans’ disparate immune systems. This raises a fundamental question about the paucity of human capability that creates myriad weapons of mass destruction yet does not dedicate sufficient funding to research to fight viruses, starting with influenza. The novel coronavirus or COVID-19 is exactly what is inferred from its name “novel.” This means there was corona before, but this virus is a new generation. It is, as it has become clear, much more lethal and capable of rapidly spreading among humans. COVID represents the first letters of its name in English: coronavirus disease and 19 refers to its initial appearance at the end of 2019.
It took some time for the first country with infected persons to diagnose the virus and develop strategies to resist it. At first, it was believed that these were viruses that cause pneumonia, until its diagnosis as a new strain of coronavirus – but complete information was not provided, and work begun to combat it was on the basis of trial and error, even with some awareness of its seriousness and an urgent need for speedy and decisive treatment.
At the beginning of 2020, news spread about this new virus, in some Asian countries in the Far East, and that the virus did actually start to take lives. Many of us thought it would be similar to viruses that had appeared in previous years – that came and went relatively placidly, without causing big losses of life. We imagined it as SARS, Ebola and others, but we were wrong. Then it seemed that the virus mainly afflicted China, particularly Wuhan Province, which covers an area the size of a large country and the numbers of horrific losses began to follow. Figures on the infections and fatalities have been reported, as well as information on the measures taken by the Chinese authorities to limit movement in a way that was not initially possible to implement elsewhere.
From China, the virus spread to some other Asian countries like Singapore and South Korea, that is, to countries that have Chinese minorities connected to China or that have multiple ties with it. Both have made remarkable strides in the areas of testing, movement restriction, and medical readiness, leading to reasonable control of the situation.
Conspiracy theories quickly began to surface: the virus was released by the United States against China to curtail its advancement or at least a Chinese or American laboratory in China itself lost control of the virus … and so on. This was accompanied by accusations that China was not sufficiently transparent in warning the world. China responded vigorously with numbers on the date of reporting to many parties of the progression of the virus and blamed them for their unpreparedness. Later, some Chinese authorities informally disseminated stories of U.S. responsibility. It is important that, from there, global spread began … in a way compatible with the interdependence of countries and the movement of its citizenry between these countries, perhaps the curse of human progress in this world.
Some information began to be available about the virus: it appeared that the infection was one thing and the onset of symptoms another. This indicates that people can become infected but not manifest symptoms; there are, as well, variations in symptoms, the strongest apparently fatal with the most important feature severe shortness of breath. There have been some theories that there are three types of the virus that differ in the degree of ability to be fatal. It also appeared that children could become infected and be active carriers of the virus but are less likely to develop symptoms for reasons that are not fully understood. It also seemed that men are more likely to be infected with the virus than women and, of course, the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions are more susceptible to infection. However, it was confirmed that infection is spread from one person to another and that reducing outbreaks requires avoiding interaction between people (social distancing).
The virus has spread from Southeast Asia to Europe, specifically and to a greater extent, to Italy, Spain, France, and, Germany to a lesser extent. It then spread throughout the United States of America, now considered a hotspot of the virus. The spread of the virus has now been described by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a global pandemic. The Organization announced on the 11th of March that it had classified COVID-19 as a pandemic and on the 30th of January, it announced that COVID-19 constitutes a public health emergency of international importance. A pandemic in the 21st century? It seems as if we are back in the 18th or 19th century. In the Middle East, the infection reached a number of countries: Egypt, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, the Gulf States, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Jordan, Palestine and other countries. However, the confirmed cases seemed to be generally less than in Europe. Curiously, the virus did not appear in places of abject misery—the Syrian refugee camps, the Gaza Strip, Somalia, or Yemen at least until about mid-April. In addition to this, the virus has spread in some Latin American countries such as Brazil and Mexico. In general, until that time, the virus appeared to predominate more in the north than the south. The extreme fear was and is the spread of the pandemic in Africa, which, if this happens, does not have the minimum level of preparedness and would become a humanitarian disaster. Ironically, poorer countries seem to have been less infected with the virus because of limited contact and arrivals and departures to and from these areas.
A serious and definitive solution is, of course, the availability of a vaccine, but that requires time for discovery, controlled experiment, production and then distribution. I learned from China's representative to the Palestinian Authority that intensive efforts are underway to produce a vaccine of which there are two types: the first deals with the DNA of the virus and the second deals with vaccines against previous viruses. I also heard from Dr. Anthony Fauci, the American expert, that the United States will finance the discovery of a vaccine even if it fails afterward to commit to its announced production period. The vaccine is not a cure, but it does work with the body to form the necessary immunity against the virus or disease. The vaccine is coming but will take time. The question here is whether there are treatments, even partial ones, and the answers were mixed. France, specifically the Fiona Company, announced a hydroxychloroquine drug, which was used as a treatment against malaria. A number of countries have adopted this in conjunction with erythromycin, a relatively new antibiotic, but there has always been disagreement and controversy over the drug's success in treating the novel coronavirus. Of course, having treatments in the intervening period until a vaccine is found will be of great benefit if it occurs. Some conjecture that the virus is seasonal in nature and will disappear in the summer period. Likewise, some suggest a second wave will occur next winter and possibly a third wave. Until everything is known about the novel coronavirus, until a vaccine is developed, and at least until partial treatments are successful, countries must try to limit the spread of the virus and prepare to deal with possible infections.
The reduction in its spread came mainly through limiting movement and contact between people, that is, by adopting measures related to human behavior. Most countries initiated measures preventing entry from a certain country or countries, then from all countries, to closing its borders. Internally, most countries took measures to prevent [public] gatherings such as closing schools, universities, and artistic, cultural and sports events. More strict measures were then implemented, such as closing public areas, and prohibiting people from leaving their homes, except for certain occupations. Some countries have even imposed lockdowns and curfews for limited hours or limited periods. Most countries have also distributed serious medical preparations, protective equipment/gear such as masks, gloves and protective clothing (despite divergent theories that masks are of little use, to imposing their use on anyone outside their home – but the issue of masks remains important in general).
As well, [a number of countries] are testing on a large scale, especially in groups suspected of being infected, that can allow for the development of control strategies; providing and increasing the number of laboratories to determine the results of the tests; and establishing reasonably equipped isolation centers, in addition to home quarantines under monitored conditions. Some countries have implemented technological measures to track the movement of entire segments of population. Most importantly is to establish specific hospitals equipped with intensive care units and ventilators to allow for the treatment of patients with serious symptoms and avoid an infected person from being sent to an existing hospital. The foregoing has become a practical model followed by most countries, albeit with some disparity. Everyone is trying, of course, to benefit from the experience of other countries in the fight against this pandemic. Due to the destructive impact of movement control measures on the economy, which simply stopped work and halted economic activity, some countries took action to compensate for lost income and support businesses in general to enable their sustainability.
The overall problem that countries are facing is in finding the necessary balance between saving lives and preserving the economy. They are, ultimately, connected, even as the former won priority, of course among balanced and reasonable leaders. The difficulty has always been in finding the right point of balance, especially with the onset of a second stage of the pandemic.
All of the above has changed the world we know. Economic, cultural, sports and religious relations among countries have been suspended. The Tokyo Olympics was postponed, and it seems the Hajj pilgrimage might be canceled. Tourism and travel have been halted, and associated businesses, such as airlines, hotels, restaurants, etc., have [or are on the brink of] collapsed. Meanwhile, the race between countries and companies to find a vaccine and possible treatments has intensified. It is, in fact, in the hands of scientists and doctors who have shown more maturity to maintain cooperation and exchange information but have been stymied by the well-known greed of pharmaceutical companies that aspire to make huge amounts of money when they own the solution.
Novel Coronavirus in Our Country
Around mid-February, coronavirus cases increased in number and severity, and some countries began measures to limit the spread of the virus, including restrictions on the entry and exit.
With regard to Yasser Arafat Foundation, questions arose on the feasibility of holding the Board of Trustees Meeting on the appointed date, the 5th of March. Contributing to the urgency of the discussion were the late regrets of the participants to attend, all of which appeared to be related to the novel coronavirus. The subject of postponing the meeting was discussed with the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Amr Moussa, who did not oppose postponement, as well as with the Secretary-General of the Arab League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, who seemed to be more understanding of the idea. This was also discussed with several members of the Board of Directors. There was no consensus, but a clear majority were in favor of the postponement. The decision to postpone was taken, and all board members were notified simultaneously on Thursday, the 27th of February, before the start of the weekend. Following the [official] postponement of the meeting, it seemed that all of the members of the Board of Trustees – not only those who proposed or wished to – welcomed the postponement, happy to avoid any risks. On the personal level, my wife and son were not happy about the decision to cancel the trip to Cairo – especially my son, who had purchased his ticket, although the airline gave him the right to use it over the coming year. In general, our personal situation changed over several days. Shortly thereafter, Aboul Gheit made a quick visit to Algeria, during which he announced the postponement of the Arab summit scheduled for April. There was a growing sense of concern, and it seemed that we were all heading for more peril.
Surprisingly, and as though a thunderbolt hit the Holy Land, amid tension and chaos, coronavirus cases appeared in Bethlehem, on Thursday, the 5th of March, directly as a result of infection transmitted by Greek tourists lodged at the Angel Hotel in Beit Jala. The government took immediate measures to close the hotels, place its guests and employees under quarantine, and prevent entry or exit of the premises. Many samples were taken for testing, then the entire area of Bethlehem was closed in general. Some, with specious hidden agendas, claimed that it was the Israeli authorities who came to the hotel after being informed by the Greek tourists after their return to their country and took the samples to Tel Aviv, and then the occupation army closed the area, prohibiting entry and exit. Part of this narrative is affirmed at least with regard to the general closure, a manifestation of Israel's disdain for the Palestinians and the inability of the Palestinians to have a say in protecting its interests at least on the level of coordination and joint decision making in dealing with the health situation that dictates Israel's prudence and balance. The chaos in Bethlehem prevailed over several days, focussed on necessities: obtaining and testing samples, providing for the needs of hotel guests and employees then evacuating the hotels, and providing the needs of the people in the area in general. The irony was that the virus chose the birthplace of our Jesus Christ, even if through foreign tourists.
On Thursday, the 5th of March, the President issued a decree declaring a state of emergency for the coming 30 days. Although the nature of the emergency was unclear, a sense of relief prevailed in the country. It appeared that there was a seriousness in dealing with the pandemic and necessary measures were taken, particularly those related to human and social behavior. The government then almost immediately announced a ban on mass gatherings and other activities, including closing schools and universities, a decision that was widely respected with some exceptions, especially by political parties, such as the prisoners’ release celebration in Jenin. Hours before the decree was issued, we discussed closing the Yasser Arafat Museum to the public and agreed to implement the closure the following Sunday, after meeting with the staff and arranging alternative work schedules. However, the declaration of the state of emergency and increasing pressure from Al-Muqata’a headquarters hastened the closure of the Museum. In light of this, I agreed with the Museum Director to meet Friday morning at the Museum to take the necessary steps to its closure. We met with the staff, issued a public statement on the subject, agreed on a reduced [work] schedule and to utilize the time for repairs and maintenance, although that part was not implemented due to the insistence of Al-Muqata’a security to limit personnel on the premises. Nonetheless, we were able to maintain the minimum necessary maintenance and gardening [to the Museum] following our decision to close.
On Sunday, the 15th of March, the Director-General of the Foundation and I discussed preparing for the worst. I was concerned about the Palestinian Authority's ability to pay basic salaries and dues, which could affect support to the Foundation through the National Fund. I asked him two basic things, first to try to transfer $100,000 from the endowment account to the operating account, which we had previously borrowed [and repaid] by a decision of the Board of Directors, contrary to what we did several months ago. The second is to contribute to obtaining the value of the custody of Al-Quds Association, which was managed by the late Khadija Arafat, and which the Council of Ministers had decided to grant to the Foundation. The aim of these two measures, in addition to the available [funds] in the organization and the endowment profits, was to ensure the employees’ salaries over the coming months. Therefore, I took the necessary steps regarding custody of the Association through the Minister of Finance and was surprised by his positive response based on the Council of Minister's Decision. The Foundation received the two sums with some assistance from the Bank of Palestine. In addition, we agreed to open a cash deposit to be held by the Director-General of the Foundation for emergencies. We also discussed the idea that Foundation staff work from their homes. The following day, Monday, the 16th of March, we met with the staff and informed them of the decision.
There was general satisfaction among the staff, especially with the reassurance of the continuation of their salaries. Several staff members appeared enthusiastic to work as if the boredom of sitting at home had already begun. The upper management of the Foundation continued to come to the office for a limited period daily during that first week, but the situation became more onerous generally in the country, in the region and the world. Some of the government's decisions, despite its urgency, were illogical, and clearly related to the desire of our neighbors on both sides – for instance, among the measures taken was the closing of the Israeli-Jordanian land borders (the bridge). It was clear that the concerned party that decided to prevent entry into its territory was Jordan and that is logical. In general, Jordan has taken more decisive steps than other countries, such as border closures and curfews at times, and it seems to be linked to critical factors such as the presence of large numbers of Syrian and Iraqi refugees, and the fact that Jordan is the place where all Palestinians must cross to enter and exit – an additional risk.
Another example was the [Israeli] announcement that [Palestinian] workers would have three days to settle their situations. Unfortunately, that very morning, the Israeli army issued a detailed order regarding the movement of workers, revising their announcement about preventing workers from leaving and returning to the necessity of staying at their work places inside Israel with lodging provided by the employer for up to three months.
Nevertheless, the Palestinian government dealt seriously with the pandemic and focused largely on the area of human behavior, i.e. measures related to the movement of people and limiting it, whether by declaring Bethlehem or other areas later as closed areas (cordon sanitaire) or issuing instructions for staying at home, even though movement between areas is handled by security apparatus, including imposing barriers at city entrances more rigorously than movement within cities, at least regarding Ramallah. The government has also been successful in following up on the issue of workers as well as isolate those coming from abroad and the need to sometimes test them. The citizenry responded to these measures, with apparent successes achieved in limiting the pandemic. A good word on the security apparatuses and their performance is objective and necessary because they have already played a significant role, at times without the necessary personal protective equipment.
The problem is that all measures to limit movement are based on the experiences of other countries. It will not eliminate the pandemic in itself, but reduce the speed of its spread. These important measures give the country more time to prepare and may provide the time necessary until delighted surprises arise, such as identifying partial treatments, or the seasonal retreat of the virus. In general, the Authority, with the President’s initiative on declaring a state of emergency and dealing seriously with the situation or the government's measures to curtail human interaction, deserves a high score of performance. Other essential areas cannot be assessed positively, specifically in medical and economic preparedness.
Medically, as other experiences indicate, it is necessary to provide basic protective equipment such as masks, gloves and protective clothing, especially for health care workers; the possibility for extensive testing, appropriate laboratories; equipped, reasonable isolation centers, in addition to treatment centers in new or existing hospitals, with sensitive and important devices such as ventilators. There was a problem with this and the lack of preparedness of the Palestinian health system was obvious. Valuable time was wasted which could have been spent on preparations—preparations that do not provide any media attention.
When steps were taken to obtain what was needed, limited successes were achieved, although it may have been too late, as competition among countries for these supplies [specifically] medical gear had intensified. Now, as we approach mid-April, we all hope that God’s mercy will continue and that the protocols for social behavior will succeed in preventing a catastrophe, such as occurred, for example, in Italy and Spain. It is clear that our situation is moderate in comparison to other countries and hope that this will continue.
As well, the economic aspect, particularly with regard to readiness without media popularity seemed to have not received full attention, given our awareness of our limited capabilities. This weakness, along with the justice of the cause, may require many parties to extend the necessary support – provided there are clear programs, plans, and actions. The main problem here is the suspension of employment and lack of income for workers and their families, which threatens the social fabric itself. It is good to try to return workers from Israel, but it is also necessary to provide them with some support so they and other Palestinians who have had to stop working can survive. Preventing poverty and suffering is not just an option, and frankly, we have not seen any indication that the Authority has taken on a meaningful role in this area. The Palestinians, as usual, took refuge in the domestic economy and cultivated any plot of land available to them, which is something to be highly encouraged but, unfortunately, it is not enough nor a substitute for governmental efforts in this area. The second problem is the overall economic situation, particularly the situation of Palestinian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), where it is evident that the suspension of work has threatened the existence and viability of these productive enterprises. The concept of loan guarantee programs to support these institutions has emerged as a necessity and a step that goes beyond, for example, a support fund. It is important to note that local initiatives undertaken by the youth of the villages, refugee camps, and even some cities, especially from Fatah movement, were vital in facing the [challenges arising from the] pandemic, but their greatest importance was in awakening national responsibility and the duties of the individual and the group (social responsibility). Israel was not pleased with this development and targeted these initiatives through imposing restrictions on movement.
The Gaza Strip is a different matter. The residents of this ill-fated strip, the heart of Palestinian patriotism, are the ones paying a permanent price on this patriotism: widespread poverty, Hamas’s hijacking of the Strip and all of its actions, recurrent wars launched by Israel, and now the novel coronavirus. Ironically, its isolation has partially protected the Gaza Strip, in that individuals could not enter from infected areas, which helped to delay the emergence of the pandemic there. However, extremist groups from Pakistan and other areas changed the situation. The de facto authority not only took no necessary measures but also rejected and resisted the minimal efforts of the Palestinian Authority, despite its limited response later. Hamas is also attempting, as an alternative to rational action and cooperation with the Palestinian Authority, to reach an agreement with Israel to exchange Israeli prisoners for Israeli aid to cope with the pandemic. This will not be easy, and may, God forbid, be forced to choose between a new military confrontation, although Israel will try to avoid this with all the depravity it has shown in bargaining to provide assistance to resist the pandemic in exchange for its prisoners and the bodies of its dead with Hamas.
The important thing is that the situation in the Gaza Strip is in God's hands because the Authority also did not seriously offer what it should have despite some limited steps. If the virus spreads, it will be a real disaster, and if it does not, it will be by the great grace of God.
On Thursday, the 3rd of April, the President appeared in a short, televised statement to announce the decision to extend the state of emergency for an additional 30 days. Half an hour after the address, the Prime Minister held a 45-minute press conference – the reason for which was not clear but some in the Israeli media compared the short statement of the President with the active and effective performance of the Prime Minister, in an attempt perhaps to abet sedition. The President's decision to extend the state of emergency was expected, although the Basic Law prevents this since the right to extend is only in the hands of the Palestinian Legislative Council, which is no longer in existence. There was broad support for the decision and recognition for its necessity, but curious that there was no discussion of its legality and perhaps other possible solutions. It seems that we have become accustomed to ruling without law and legislation.
As we approach mid-April, debate intensified over the need to restore economic life, even partially; especially as it appeared that the virus had slowed. On Sunday, the 12th of April, a committee of nine ministers met to discuss the possibility of some sectors resuming work. The committee was said to have agreed on a gradual plan of implementation. That same day, the Prime Minister suggested it might be premature to return to normal life, which led to broad confusion. Other ideas emerged, including reducing the legally necessary bank reserves from 10 percent to six percent, and it was rumored that the Governor of the Palestine Monetary Authority was under pressure to return the Fund's strategic reserves, which, fortunately, he resisted.
Ramadan is approaching. People need money during the Holy Month more than at any other time. How will the situation unfold, particularly for those who have lost their income? If the government’s resources are insufficient to alleviate the hardship, I think this is a time for sharing the burden, for solidarity and fraternity among people, and this could be realized, for example, by deducting a percentage of the salaries of those still employed for the benefit of workers and those whose resources were suspended, as well as perhaps for the benefit of our people in the Gaza Strip. I expect that important aspects of the social rituals during this Holy Month will be canceled – mass congregations, public Iftars, and gatherings for prayer, etc. As for fasting and the additional hardships these circumstances will entail, including perhaps health risks, I believe that the matter should not be subject to discussion and should remain between every human being, his conscience and God. Ramadan Mubarak.
Finally, our valiant, brave prisoners whose suffering has multiplied in these circumstances amid the deliberate Israeli neglect of their needs in the face of the coronavirus, must be supported, and Israel must be pressured to follow the same international standard of responsibility to [protect the prisoners and] reduce their numbers. It may not be possible to achieve large-scale releases, but I think it is possible to achieve the release [of the most vulnerable], especially women, children, the elderly, those with underlying medical conditions and perhaps those who have served the greater part of their sentences.
Novel Coronavirus and Israel
Israel has identified the economic sectors that require Palestinian labor and has declared that it will not permit the movement of workers between Israel and the Palestinian territories, but has allowed workers in these sectors to remain for three months in Israel under the responsibility of the employer. This situation is a characterization of the usual Israeli opportunism, but it has not stopped there. The Israeli authorities have thrown any worker with symptoms of infection at the nearest checkpoint, creating a major problem for the Palestinian side, and their opportunistic attitude has turned into a vile, immoral one. The Palestinian government understood the seriousness of the situation, acted quickly in an attempt to return workers as fast as possible, and undoubtedly took the right action, albeit with varying degrees of success. In general, Israel was late in taking the necessary measures to limit people’s movement, and it is said that part of the reason was Netanyahu’s desire to be in harmony with Trump’s position in the United States, which was concerned about reducing the risk of the virus. Flights from the United States were allowed as an exception and admitted travelers from the U.S. without any testing or isolation.
Israel has always had many problems with a strategic nature. Its first problem was its internal political crisis, even after three elections – a crisis that manifested serious political dissent. Some even suggested that real confrontations could erupt among differing Israeli factions. The second problem was the behavior of Israeli religious extremists and their failure to adhere to the instructions for social distancing and insistence on maintaining the pattern of their social relations, which undoubtedly caused the spread of the virus. The third problem is the Palestinians in Israel, especially in certain areas, for whom Israel cares not, although a major problem would emerge if the virus spreads among them. The fourth problem is the settlers, and the proliferation of settlements among the Palestinians, including the situation in Jerusalem and its demographic composition, particularly in occupied East Jerusalem, which challenges the idea of a unified Jerusalem. These indicate that all Israeli policies aimed at swallowing the land during this phase, where the population has not yet been eliminated, directly contradict the policies needed to combat the virus and may result in an expensive price for Israel to pay. In light of the above, some Israelis tried to show some flexibility toward the Palestinians, including the Minister of Finance, who may not remain in his position when the new government is formed.
Israel clearly cannot afford the collapse of the PA during this pandemic, and at the same time cannot allow the Authority to take wrong actions toward the pandemic. Consequently, Israel is obliged to either unilaterally impose decisions on the Palestinian side, or to accept consultation and joint work with a degree of parity.
The problem with all this is that the Palestinian side seemed unable to understand the equation, that what matters is not who possesses more weapons or money but rather who acts more responsibly. In fact, the coronavirus experience was a rare opportunity for the Palestinian side to impose parity of treatment, of course, while acting responsibly towards its people. Unfortunately, this did not happen.
Apart from the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, Israel has failed to play the role of the champion on the international stage, despite its empty and foolish announcements on finding cures. On the contrary, Israel has acted despicably with other countries, and stealing from or misleading others to obtain the necessary equipment to combat the pandemic, such as masks and ventilators, and then other countries also followed this downward trajectory. The Mossad has emerged as an important player in this field, which confirms once again the nature of things in this country. Israel could not be seen as a leading or great country; it emerged as a small country suffering from many big problems.
Despite the serious issues that Israel is experiencing in light of the novel coronavirus, the general positions of the ruling powers have not changed. Likud is still pushing vigorously toward annexation in the broadest way possible to implement Trump's vision, and even their negotiations with the Blue and White party over a new emergency government led to an agreement on some form of annexation, although they still did not succeed in forming a new coalition government. Everything that Israel is doing, despite some precautions imposed by the novel coronavirus, serves the same insane goals that are unprecedented in our contemporary world. Despite this, what will actually happen because of this coronavirus [pandemic]? How will it be possible to continue the same expansionist policies in the era of the pandemic and how will Israeli society, or at least the ruling powers, change? All of these questions are still raised and still unanswered. Our duty is to prepare fully for the worst and to adopt policies and measures that enhance our ability to resist and render the Israeli project unworkable because otherwise, it will enable Israel to impose an exceptional state of vulnerability and even dependency on the Palestinian side after this pandemic.
Influenza and the Novel Coronavirus
I am aware of my susceptibility to the common cold and influenza, from which I have suffered greatly. Years ago, I came across natural substances produced in France specifically for the common cold – initially very helpful, but after several years of continual use and perhaps overuse, were no longer effective. Before that, the effervescent vitamin C drink was the solution, but similarly, that along with propolis were ineffective in boosting my immunity and provide sufficient protection from colds and flu. As this continued, falling ill has become a painful matter for me, and sometimes have needed to remain at home and even in bed for several days.
When the novel coronavirus emerged, I was very concerned, as infection from influenza or even mild colds produces real fear for me and others around me. As expected, I began to experience typical symptoms and decided to deal with it decisively. I found a traditional remedy of black seeds or black seed oil [Nigella sativa L.] at the spice market, and for several days, I really felt it was useful. Ahmed Soboh reminded me that Abu Ammar, may God have mercy on him, used to eat it daily with a bit of honey and tahini, and sometimes made compulsorily for his guests over the usual simple dinner. That story encouraged my belief in the importance of black seeds and perhaps as useful as many traditional medicinal herbs. I also got a throat spray, as I knew from previous experiences that the main problem starts there. Sore throat quickly turns into influenza, but as before, it was useful for a while but when it stopped being effective, I consulted a doctor who warned me that the spray is one of the worst things I could use and may cause damage resulting from dryness in the throat. Nonetheless, I continued to apply the spray because the consequences of flu infection in such circumstances were unbearable.
A major concern was that my wife, who I call daily on Skype, would know and be seriously concerned for fear of the novel coronavirus. How can we distinguish between influenza, sneezing, runny nose, cough, and the coronavirus and its symptoms? Then, foolishly, I decided to take antibiotics for five days. It goes without saying that some symptoms like headaches, fever, or cold cause a real fear of the coronavirus. I think many of us have this fear or obsession – another burden of this virus.
Following the government’s decision to stay at home, I felt the need for a consult on my condition. On Sunday, I called Dr. Khaled at the Palestine Red Crescent Society and considered actually seeing a doctor and perhaps getting some tests done, whether as a general checkup or the coronavirus test, hoping to avoid the latter. Dr. Khaled, aware of my health condition, preferred to do a phone consultation and was decisive in his evaluation – that there was nothing of concern but, in any case, the antibiotics should be stopped because they are ineffective against a virus and most probably would adversely affect my immune system. He also advised me to stop using the throat spray and take only Vitamin C and Panadol to improve my immunity. I diligently followed his advice, and I started to feel the need for it. My situation has not deteriorated, nor ended, but has gradually improved.
During this time, I remained in almost constant contact with my friends Abu Ali and Mohammad and often lunched together in Abu Ali’s home. Abu Ali has a weak physical structure and was suffering from a chronic cough, and is greatly concerned about members of his family, most of whom live in Spain and coping with the widespread threat of the coronavirus there. I had serious doubts that Abu Ali’s symptoms were from a cold, but because I love him dearly, I did not react and we continued recklessly to meet at least for lunch. Even when I stopped leaving my house, Abu Ali with one of my bodyguards, still came for lunch, with a meal prepared by one of their wives or by Mohammad himself – reckless behavior as we posed some danger to each other.
My psychological suffering was severe, but perhaps less so than that of some of my beloved colleagues in the Central Committee of Fatah, with whom I remained in contact and met with most of them. During one phone conversation, Saeb Erikat joked that he always felt lonely and bored due to his health situation and the need to take some [extreme] measure – like quarantine. He now feels that all the Palestinian people are like him, and have to take similar measures.
As I continued to remain at home, with constant anxiety and the feeling that we all, the entire nation, without discrimination, is at risk from the same threat. While channel surfing on television, I saw the last part of an interview by the France 24 correspondent in New York, and had the impression that he exhibited symptoms of the coronavirus. Remarkably, I still had his phone number from my last visit to New York many years ago. I called to check up on him – a call that actually turned into a pleasant conversation in the emerging battle against the novel coronavirus and its impact in New York. For a technical reason, I had to video call Ali on FaceTime and was able to see him. He looked a bit pale and seemed to have lost some weight, but he seemed strong and confident that he had passed this difficult phase. He told me that doctors advised him not to go to the hospital because if he was sick, he would infect others, and if not, he risked being infected. They sent him a testing kit, that later confirmed he was infected with the novel coronavirus. They asked him to vacate his house and send his family elsewhere. That not being possible –he has no other place and no one could receive them, it was agreed that he would quarantine himself in one room and bathroom separate from the rest of the family. He told me of his symptoms and confirmed that they are all similar to what we have heard, with the fortunate exception of difficulty breathing. He said that he suffered from severe headaches, vomiting, painful coughing, muscle spasms, and even reading was painful to his eyes. Finally, he lost his sense of smell, and it was he who informed doctors of this symptom. The important thing is that he has passed through the worst and is recovering. On the other hand, I heard Senator Amy Klobuchar speak about her husband's infection and said that he had a severe bloody cough and could not breathe without a ventilator. Why and how this difference is unknown, and much remains unknown about this virus. Ali’s story undoubtedly helped me to overcome any fears I may have, at least the symptoms he described are completely different from those I had in the previous period. During this time, the young men who are always with me acted in a humane and gracious manner. I had asked them early to reduce their presence with me but their wives insisted on providing me with meals, even with Abu Ali and Mohammad. The matter was humbling but necessary, and most importantly they were always like brothers and their wives my sisters. Other colleagues, like Noor and Tami, also ensured I was taken care of and I am profoundly grateful for their presence in my life and during this time of isolation.
Novel Coronavirus Globally
Iran was apparently an open door for the coronavirus. The virus has caused widespread suffering and claimed many lives, including senior state officials, members of parliament and others at all levels. Iran seemed unable to implement a clear strategy and thus could not effectively combat the pandemic. In a dark moment, events there answered [a hitherto unthinkable] question that had yet to be raised. What about the corpses of the coronavirus victims? Is it possible to handle the bodies naturally, to wash and prepare for burial, etc. Of course, we are not talking about normal funerals because of the danger of mass gatherings. In Iran, mass graves covered with chemicals have been reported to eliminate the virus that still infects the bodies. This terrifying conundrum, unfortunately, was repeated in places one could never imagine: New York, for example, and perhaps at the outset, China.
Iran tried to play the coronavirus card to ease or end US sanctions, a smart move, but did not achieve the desired result from the [Trump] Administration. Some European countries, however, have offered some assistance to Iran. If there were real leaders, this might create an opening for a different type of relationship and strategy in the region. But until further notice, Iran appears to be left to its fate.
The south, in general, does not seem to be as attractive to the virus; where it has struck remained without great losses: Syrian refugee camps, the Gaza Strip, Yemen, Iraq and Somalia. Ironically, because there are less entry and exit ... perhaps for other reasons, divine ones ... the afflicted do not need more divine punishment.
Europe was another story. The horror began in Italy, specifically northern Italy. The government initially hesitated to implement measures but took action: isolating entire areas and prohibiting [public] gatherings, issuing stay at home orders and later imposing all of these measures throughout Italy. The cheerful and chaotic Italian spirit may not have helped much. Despite what has been called “the Italian model” in fighting the virus, at least concerning human behavior, Italy has been suffering – with regard to the number of infected, the number of critical cases and the number of fatalities, regardless of their good public health system, at least in northern Italy, and better than in many other European countries – not to mention the economic destruction and bleakness of the future. The Italian crisis was not alleviated except by some limited aid from China and Russia. The same situation struck similarly, albeit with a delay of two to three weeks, in Spain; and the two countries appeared to be in competition on numbers [of infections and fatalities].
France became the third country [hit hard] on the European continent, followed by Germany, although the latter showed extraordinary abilities in combating the pandemic and the discipline of its citizenry … Germans as usual. Of course, other countries of Europe were not completely spared with many combatting the coronavirus, to varying degrees.
The situation created a major challenge for the European Union, as well as for cooperation and solidarity. In Italy, rage erupted in the streets, specifically against the EU, for its apparent failure to come to their aid. Much discussion took place among European officials about collective participation in bearing the burden, with the split between the north and the south still apparent, which is, of course, relative south. The southern countries were more affected than others by the virus, the same countries could not adjust to establishing budgetary regulations and common economic relations. Despite that, and perhaps after Germany, specifically, understood that the choice was between adopting a common position and sharing the burden on the one hand, and ending the European Union on the other. [Germany] chose the first option and the states of the EU agreed to commit half a trillion euros to confront the crisis.
Britain, as usual, is another story, and initially chose, on the basis that they are smarter than others, the so-called herd immunity, i.e. the collective immunity of the population. Therefore, Britain did not [initially] take any measures to limiting movement and social distancing but was forced to completely alter its strategy and adopt similar measures, albeit less rigorously, like those of the European states. Having recently emerged from the Brexit drama, Britain seemed broken as it faced the coronavirus crisis. It is almost certain that the British were desperate for European aid that would not come. Despite their trust in herd immunity, and perhaps because of it, the coronavirus infected the Prime Minister, who initially self-isolated, then was admitted to hospital, and then to intensive care. It is said that as we approached mid-April, he is recovering and will be discharged soon.
The virus reached America a few weeks after its spread in Europe, [apparently] the heart of its storm. America recorded terrifying numbers of fatalities, which have exceeded the numbers anywhere else – for example, more than two thousand deaths within 24 hours. President Trump has insisted for too long that there is no real danger, and that the coronavirus and the exaggeration of it is a democratic conspiracy against him. Trump boldly declared that there were only 19 cases in the U.S. and the number would reach zero within days. Trump was primarily focussed on [propping up] the economy, business, companies and not the lives of people. Overwhelmed by the facts, the President retracted his position, assigned the Vice President to head oversee this battle, formed a high-level task force under his chairmanship that holds a daily press conference. The press conference[s] have been a travesty; the President would say something then retract it a few days later. At one point, he declared that he wanted to end restrictions on movement by Easter [the 12th of April] and a few days later claimed that he was just hoping for this. The real parody was in the disparity, even contradiction, between the president and his leading experts and medical professionals. Dr. Fauci invariably appeared embarrassed while trying to stay faithful to scientific integrity without directly contradicting the President. New York became the epicenter for the coronavirus in the United States, perhaps because it is a gateway with a dense population. With a rapidly mushrooming medical emergency in New York, its governor launched a permanent attack on Trump, and later followed by a number of bipartisan governors who demanded a definitive national policy to fight the pandemic in the United States. In addition to Trump’s unwillingness to take any serious measures at the outset, he also raised the issue of the absence of a general health system, which, for not even one day was concerned with public health and epidemics, but rather in raising money and that created major problems. There was a great shortage of basic things like masks, gloves and ventilators. When the system finally kicked into gear, some compensation was made, and the U. S. began to produce 1000 ventilators daily. The irony is that a number of countries have provided assistance to the United States, not the other way around, including China and Russia, as if a portent of what will come.
President Trump attempted to place the blame on any external authority for the situation and held it responsible. He began with accusing China and called the disease the “Chinese virus”, which outraged the Chinese. He then pulled back and asked for President Xi’s help. Trump also accused the World Health Organization of underperformance and favoritism toward China, although the grim face of its Director-General became known worldwide for the many early warnings of the pandemic. In short, Trump tried to prove that “the blame is on the Italians (a colloquial proverb in Arabic)” while continually congratulating himself on everything. It was surprising that, at least in the beginning, Trump’s support among Americans increased, but this could be the result of the phenomena of the citizen turning to the state, but if the contrary happens, it will be the end of the U.S. Groups of extremist Evangelical Christians played a very negative role, not only in their support for Trump but also in their opposition to directives to stay in place, and raising slogans against the measures. They proved, in general, that their political agenda was more important than the commandments of the Bible, let alone human life.
The World is No Longer a Small Village
Global change is inevitable as a result of the new coronavirus pandemic, but the extent and depth of this change will depend on the point of return – controlling the virus, even if partially – to relative normalcy. Some change has already taken place, perhaps the most conspicuous is the disconnection of the world, the full stop to travel and movement, and the breaking of the economic supply chain as if the world is no longer that small village that it was, to the total absence of the United States from the international stage and inability to play any leadership role in the face of the pandemic. Ironically, this void has not been filled, at least not entirely, by any other, including China.
Another change is the turn of citizens toward the state, for protection from the virus – that what stands between them and danger is the state and its institutions, including the army, police and security apparatuses. Protection here is not limited to health but also personal security and even social and economic security. In the global south, this phenomenon will work in favor of totalitarian regimes, and in the global north, it will work for the national state at the expense of transboundary entities, such as the European Union.
Many possible changes, including socio-political changes, seem to have started to become clear. For example, the role of extremist religious groups has declined, due to the negative role they have played in transmitting and dismissing the virus, exacerbating the problem and then failing to actualize the divine protection that the ordinary citizen had hoped for. In short, they did not provide an answer of any kind.
It also seems that women will emerge as winners from this pandemic. It simply affirmed their clear leadership role in handling most responsibilities. Women have always maintained this has ever been the case, at least in most societies, but this current case has reaffirmed their role again. Staying at home meant that women would carry out their usual tasks, teaching their children and providing a reasonable living atmosphere for the whole family. When men do not leave the house and when they do not work, women become those who carry all responsibilities. What is interesting is that many have observed that countries led by women were more successful in handling the crisis than those led by men in comparable states. Perhaps in some conservative societies, this phenomenon will not be as apparent or even possible but in other societies, seems inevitable that women will continue to rise to positions that attest to their independent leadership capabilities. The working model imposed by the pandemic in some countries, especially developed countries, is to work remotely from home, as well as the absence of travel and mobility, which seemed to serve working women.
Economically, there is a sea of changes, the first, and most profound, is the suspension of employment due to the limitation on movement, which means that workers will remain without a source of income. If the situation continues longer than expected, there will be dangerous and broad implications, not only economically but also socially. The negative impact on the normal functioning of state institutions and the social fabric may be very destructive and devolve into chaos and the proliferation of the worst human instincts. Many countries have taken measures by designating financial programs to partially alleviate this situation. However, the result will depend on the length of the suspension of work, and even when work resumes, this could be disorganized. Countries overall will be affected economically, with a deterioration of growth in most – the greatest challenge for the state and the international system. Some of the global south countries will suffer more and perhaps for longer than others, including the Middle East, especially the non- and looted oil countries. The global economy will be affected; the economies of all countries will be affected. The difference will be in their ability to withstand the greatest losses.
The third dimension is significant damage to the business sector. The central question is which will be most affected: SMEs [small-to-medium enterprises] or large firms? Until now, the existing system has worked for the benefit of corporations and will remain biased towards them. The economic support packages approved by most countries, that amounts to $2.2 trillion, an undoubtedly inconceivable number, seem to be biased towards either bailing out big companies making it easier for these companies to benefit from these economic packages. Transboundary and global companies have suffered specifically from international supply chain disruptions. Apparently, the coming phase will not favor restoring the same methods, but will focus more on building national supply chains. This could result in the growth of localized suppliers at the expense of the globalized ones. Even if this process is led by right-wing political parties, it would not be in the interest of the big firms but in favor of the small and medium-sized or even the new enterprises that are being developed within the new international system. However, the big IT companies will be less negatively affected in the coming new context because technological chaos, including in the smart tech industry and organic manufacturing, poses more of a threat to humanity than capitalism itself and create a greater threat than the large corporations previously mentioned.
What is needed is a more just system on both the national and international levels. One solution could be the nationalization of the economy or promoting cooperation between states rather than a globalized economic system that is stronger than the states themselves – this puts into question the continuation of the European Union in its current form. It may seem as if the future is bleak yet the successes through financial solidarity between countries are glimmers of hope moving forward. The Arab region will definitely suffer as a result of the aforementioned but there is an opportunity to create a communal and integrative network among the Arab states – this requires leadership with real vision. As well, attention must always be given to limiting the [reach of the] technological industry to a level that is less threatening to humanity.
Nature remains the foundation that must be respected, protected and cease abusing. The adjustments in human behavior and reduction in toxic carbon dioxide emissions from factories due to novel coronavirus have resulted in a positive impact on nature. Nature has breathed a long sigh of relief, spared the effect of human destruction. There have been sightings of dolphins off the coast of Italy, the clarity of the atmosphere in Beijing and many other major cities, the profusion of flora and fauna reclaiming their share of the earth. Human beings must learn from this, resort to renewable energy sources and learn to adapt to nature and preserve the environment rather than exploiting nature and the environment for money and profit. We must also restore our human dignity and ensure a decent quality of life for all – to end poverty and eliminate the insane amassing of capital by a small specific group that does not know what to do with this capital. The coronavirus crisis brings with it an opportunity for humankind. Without a clear vision and serious efforts on all levels, the possibility that humans return to what we were before the coronavirus emerged, but that must be prevented, and at least learn from the crisis and the price that we have paid.
What Is Next for the Novel Coronavirus?
The question now is: what is next for the coronavirus? It now appears that the first stage, the phase of confinement measures and limiting movement to curtail its spread and to gain time to bolster medical preparations – and perhaps to the emergence of pleasant surprises in terms of finding treatments or later, vaccines, all seem to be put in motion in many countries. The first stage was relatively easy, regardless of its economic and social effects. It only required some decisions from the decision-makers.
What now? How will the second phase be implemented – the transition to return to the workplace for the sake of the economy? The real magical solution is to find treatments, even if partial and, of course, vaccines though may not be ready before the beginning of 2021, or by the end of this year, at best. Until then, the methodologies are, of course, more complicated and will be almost impossible for the developing countries. For example, some propose very broad, testing according to a specific strategy. Others suggest testing aimed at identifying those who have developed immunity against the virus and deem them capable to be the first to return to work. There has been talk about some medications that may only be administered in hospitals and carefully monitored. Any of these solutions would present a huge challenge for many countries in the south. Some also look to the possibility of the seasonality of the virus that it would dissipate in warmer weather and return with the cold.
Among all of the above, many of the countries in the global south seem to be more fortunate and privileged by God during this first stage but might be in worsened situations in the coming stages.
Now as we approach mid-April, where have the numbers reached globally? It seems that there are about 2.2 million confirmed diagnoses, and the number of fatalities has surpassed 150,000, including about 35,000 in the United States alone. I think the real numbers are higher as there is still much not known. In all this time, we still know very little about the novel coronavirus. The only realistic solution to this disaster is to find a vaccine, and that will take time. Some Asian countries, including China, now seem to have surpassed the worst. Several European countries have started planning for a gradual end of the lockdown, after they have passed what they believe to be the peak of infection, which is more complicated than the first stage.
A battle is now raging in the United States between President Trump, who wants to end the lockdown for economic reasons, and state governors, who prefer to wait for a decline in the number of infected and the alarming number of fatalities, which reached today about 4,000 deaths. The Middle East seems to have been exposed to a different version of the novel coronavirus, as it has not experienced the horrendous number of fatalities as Europe.
So, what is next? We do not really know, although there may be a serious possibility that the pandemic might be alleviated during the summer, though might be followed by a second wave in the coming winter, before the vaccine and cure. We do not know if the countries of the Middle East, including Palestine, will also see a lighter version of the pandemic. In other words, what I mean is that our countries may have a second chance – a rare thing in this life. If this does not happen, and the virus disappears until a vaccine is found, without a second wave occurring, we will not have lost anything due to our precautions, and all humankind will be in a better condition. The third and final scenario is that the virus will not disappear and may continue or increase until we find a vaccine or therapeutics. This is a possibility, although I think it will less likely to happen, but if it does, may God be with all humankind … things will unfold through the process.
