The Reason Watermelon is a Symbol of Support for Palestine
Lately, emojis and pictures of watermelon have been popping up on social media, such as on Instagram, X, Facebook, etc. People from various parts of the world continue to express support for the Palestinians following the deaths of more than 8,500 people in the Gaza Strip as a result of the Israel invasion. As a symbol of support for Palestinians, users on social media have embedded watermelon emojis in various posts.
The red fruit is said to be a symbol of support for Palestine in facing the conflict with Israel. Watermelon is known to have a long history as a symbol of resistance for independence for the Palestinian people.
The meaning of watermelon as a symbol of support for Palestine
Watermelon itself is the most iconic fruit that represents Palestine. Grown throughout Palestine, from Jenin to Gaza, the use of watermelon is very popular in some food recipes and Levantine culture.
Quoting from CNN, the use of watermelon as a symbol of resistance began to be used in the 1960s by community movements. The Israeli government banned the display of the Palestinian flag during the Six Day War with Egypt, Syria and Jordan in 1967.
Flying the Palestinian flag is considered to arouse feelings of nationalism among Palestinians and Arabs. This made the community movement take the initiative to use watermelon as a symbol of Palestine.
Watermelon was chosen because its color elements match the Palestinian flag. When cut open, watermelon fruit has red color, green-white skin, and black seeds
