In the realm of Portuguese literature, there exists a well-known figure: the Old Man of Restelo. This character, unlike those who embraced exploration, lamented change and condemned the departure of brave navigators. His presence serves as a timeless reminder of a persistent aspect of humanity: those who oppose those daring enough to challenge the status quo, striving for a better future.

Such voices have always been present, and today, their echo is amplified through various media channels, social networks, and a dissonance of misguided dissent that continues to align itself with the wrong side of history.

This theme is evident throughout history. During the protests of the 1960s in America, while many recognized their significance, there were still vehemently reactionary voices opposing the movement.

The current climate is not much different, though complexities may seem overwhelming, or so it is suggested. The ongoing genocide in Palestine over the past seven months should unite us all—without exception—on one front: the front of humanity.

It is increasingly evident what the State of Israel is perpetrating, and those attempting to argue otherwise are pushing the limits of reason. A growing number of images, reports, and evidence from credible entities such as the UN reveal the grim reality and the atrocities taking place.

The recent discovery of mass graves, where individuals were reportedly buried alive, should galvanize us into action, yet we witness how such protests are met with excessive force from law enforcement, whether in the United States or even here in Portugal.

This is absurd. The images we continuously see on social media depicting violence against Palestinians should leave no doubt about the immorality of genocide.

Since October 7th, a frequent tactic to undermine the quest for a free Palestine has emerged: the unfounded claim of anti-Semitism directed at protesters. Anti-Zionism is not synonymous with anti-Semitism.

This argument loses all credibility when J