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Handala is an iconic cartoon character created by the Palestinian cartoonist Naji al-Ali, known for his powerful, symbolic depictions of the Palestinian struggle. Handala is portrayed as a ten-year-old boy with his back turned to the viewer, barefoot, and wearing tattered clothes. His hands are often clasped behind his back, and he is sometimes depicted watching scenes of injustice, suffering, and resistance. Over time, Handala became a widely recognized symbol of Palestinian defiance and resistance against oppression.

Symbolism of Handala:

1. Ten-year-old Boy: Handala represents the age at which Naji al-Ali was forced to leave Palestine during the Nakba (the 1948 Palestinian exodus), symbolizing the loss of innocence and a childhood interrupted by displacement. Handala remains ten years old, reflecting that his development was frozen at the moment of exile, just as the Palestinian issue remains unresolved.

2. Back Turned: Handala's posture, with his back turned, reflects his rejection of the world's silence and complicity toward the plight of the Palestinians. It also signifies that the world has turned its back on Palestinians, and Handala only turns around when justice is achieved for Palestine.

3. Barefoot and Poor Clothes: His bare feet and ragged clothes symbolize the poverty and hardship of Palestinian refugees, but also their resilience and connection to the land.

4. Hands Behind the Back: This posture can be seen as a gesture of patience and waiting, but also helplessness. Handala observes, critiques, and witnesses injustices, silently accusing those responsible. However, he does not actively participate in the scene, reinforcing the idea that children, like Handala, are often the voiceless victims in situations of war and displacement.

Meaning in Palestinian Literature and Art:

Handala is more than just a cartoon character; he is a symbol of Palestinian identity, resistance, and steadfastness (sumud). He captures the collective experience of Palestinian refugees, displaced people, and those living under occupation. His character often appears in various forms of Palestinian literature, art, and even political discourse as a representation of the ongoing struggle for justice and return to the homeland.

Naji al-Ali, through Handala, criticized not only the Israeli occupation but also the failures of Arab leaders and the international community to support Palestinians. Handala embodies the unyielding Palestinian spirit, representing a commitment to return and liberation. This character is now a central part of Palestinian cultural and political symbolism, signifying defiance and the enduring hope for freedom.