Reflecting on the complexities of colonial legacy and identity, I have noticed that societies grappling with their colonial past often experience heightened internal conflict and polarization. In the context of Israel and Palestine, this plays out vividly where the irony of identifying with Western 'civilization' contrasts sharply with the persistent violence inherent in colonial projects. From personal engagement with discussions around Middle Eastern politics, it's clear that the rhetoric of 'civilized' versus 'uncivilized' frequently masks deeper issues related to identity and power. This dichotomy fuels justification for violence that ultimately harms both sides. Moreover, the rise of more conservative, religious, and traditional perspectives within Israeli society suggests a reaction to this loss of colonizer identity, as seen in the increasing support for hardline political figures like Ben Gvir and Smotrich. What strikes me as particularly important is the recognition that liberal values, such as social democracy and gay rights, can coexist paradoxically with forms of oppression and violence. This dynamic illustrates the tensions within Israeli society as it struggles to maintain a 'civilized' image while facing internal divisions and the realities of occupation. Sharing from experience, I find that understanding the roots of these societal shifts requires looking beyond surface political narratives to the underlying colonial frameworks that shape identities and conflicts. Embracing this complexity can open pathways for more meaningful dialogue and, hopefully, progress toward peace by addressing not just political goals but the identity crises fueling the conflict.