When Western politicians say they "understand" the roots of terrorism, they may think they’re being empathetic. But in reality, they are sending a dangerous message: that violence is an acceptable response to perceived injustice.
Take Elias Rodriguez, the Palestinian terrorist responsible for a recent attack. In his mind, he’s a hero — a freedom fighter striking at oppressors. And figures like U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris would likely claim to “understand” his motives, as if that somehow justifies the bloodshed.
This type of reasoning only fuels the cycle of violence. The idea that terrorism is the "only option" after what some call decades of Israeli oppression is not only wrong — it's insulting to the many peoples who have faced brutal injustice and still chose peaceful paths.
India suffered under British rule for three centuries. Tibet has been occupied by China for decades. The Bahai in Iran face religious persecution. The Māori people of New Zealand were colonized and displaced. None of these groups turned to suicide bombings, airplane hijackings, or mass shootings to make their case.