Article – The consequences of the war between Hamas and Israel for the Palestinian population
Since the start of the war between Hamas and Israel, political disputes and humanitarian consequences have inevitably impacted the Palestinian population significantly. Fadi Quran, campaign director of the NGO Avaaz, gives us his testimony on the current situation.
Palestinian despair over this conflict is palpable, especially for those living in the West Bank. The violence and loss of life in Gaza is broadcast daily, creating deep suffering among Palestinians seeking solutions. Protests against the war were brutally repressed, with thousands of people arrested by Israeli and Palestinian authorities.
Israel’s blockade of Gaza has been one of the main causes of the shortage of drinking water in the region. In some parts of Gaza, residents are forced to drink boiled seawater, trying to make it drinkable by removing the salt. This unsustainable situation leads to serious health problems, especially for children. The call for the overthrow of Palestinian Authority leaders, seen as not sufficiently supporting the people of Gaza, is growing louder in the West Bank.
The idea of replacing the current leaders with democratically elected representatives is also supported by many Palestinians. However, due to restrictions imposed by Israel, Palestinians have not been able to participate in elections for over 15 years. The Palestinian Authority has also been criticized for collaborating with Israel, thereby hindering the holding of elections.
This war also led to the displacement of many Gazans in the West Bank. Their situation is precarious, living in difficult conditions and suffering from depression, anxiety and panic attacks. Separated families cannot speak to each other, which adds to the anxiety and pain already present.
The prospect of a positive outcome to this conflict is bleak. Some diplomats estimate that the number of Palestinian casualties could reach tens of thousands and that hundreds of thousands of people could be permanently displaced. In this tragic situation, Fadi Quran pleads for a ceasefire in favor of children. The exchange of prisoners, the creation of humanitarian corridors and safe zones for children would be measures to end the bloodshed.
In conclusion, the war between Hamas and Israel has devastating consequences for the Palestinian population, plunged into suffering and uncertainty. Calls for a ceasefire and concrete actions to protect children are increasing. Resolving this complex conflict will require sincere efforts and dialogues from governments and civil societies on both sides.