Malls have opened up in all Palestinian cities - especially Ramallah, Bethlehem and Hebron. One major effect of the Nakba all those decades ago, was to scatter Palestinians far and wide, creating their own diaspora. Most retain close contacts with their Palestinian roots and many have become very successful and are now choosing to spread their wealth in Palestinian areas. The villas which have sprung up around Ramallah - the owners live in America, visit once a year and are preparing for retirement back in their homeland. Not much different to the Jewish world. Jenin has a successful American university which attracts students with American contacts and is a source of considerable income in the area. Don`t underestimate the Palestinians. The rest of the Arab world respects them as intelligent, educated and very versatile. |
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