In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the use of surveillance technology in North America. From facial recognition software to drones, these tools are often touted as being “battle tested” and effective in ensuring safety and security. However, what many people may not realize is that much of this technology has been developed and tested in a very different context – Palestine.

For decades, Palestine has been under constant surveillance by the Israeli government. The use of surveillance technology has been a key component of their occupation and control over the Palestinian people. From checkpoints to biometric ID cards, Palestinians have been subjected to intense surveillance in their daily lives.

But what does this have to do with North America? The truth is, a lot. Many of the companies that develop and sell surveillance technology to North American governments and law enforcement agencies have also been involved in the occupation of Palestine. In fact, some of the technology being used in North America has been directly tested and refined in Palestine.

One example of this is the use of drones for surveillance. In Palestine, drones have been used by the Israeli military to monitor and control the movement of Palestinians. These drones have been equipped with high-resolution cameras and other surveillance technology, allowing the military to gather information and track individuals from above. Now, similar drones are being used by law enforcement agencies in North America for surveillance purposes.

Another example is facial recognition software. In Palestine, the Israeli government has been using this technology to identify and track Palestinians, often leading to their arrest and detention. This same technology is now being used in North America, with concerns being raised about its accuracy and potential for discrimination.

The use of surveillance technology in Palestine has also been accompanied by a lack of transparency and accountability. Palestinians have no say in how this technology is used and are often not even aware of the extent of surveillance they are under. This lack of transparency and accountability is also a concern in North America, where there is little oversight and regulation of the use of surveillance technology.

So why is it important to recognize the connection between surveillance technology in North America and its use in Palestine? For one, it sheds light on the true nature of this technology – it is not just about safety and security, but also about control and oppression. By framing it as “battle tested” in Palestine, the true intentions and consequences of using this technology are revealed.

Furthermore, it highlights the need for a critical examination of the use of surveillance technology in North America. We cannot simply accept these tools as necessary for our safety without considering the impact they have on our rights and freedoms. As we have seen in Palestine, the use of surveillance technology can have serious implications for marginalized communities and can be used as a tool for discrimination and oppression.

It is also important to recognize the role that North American governments and companies play in the occupation of Palestine. By using and profiting from technology that has been tested on Palestinians, they are complicit in the ongoing human rights violations in Palestine.

In conclusion, the use of surveillance technology in North America is not something to be taken lightly. It is crucial that we understand the origins and implications of this technology, and the role that Palestine plays in its development. By acknowledging the connection between surveillance technology in North America and its use in Palestine, we can work towards a more just and accountable use of these tools in our societies.