GAZA: Every year on May 15, Palestinians commemorate the Nakba, the ethnic cleansing of Palestine by Israeli militias in 1948. For 76 years, Israel’s control over Palestinian territories has deeply impacted every aspect of life of the Palestinian people, imposing restrictions on movement, housing, employment, finances, trade, technology, infrastructure, and cultural heritage.
Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem face physical separation, with movement between areas largely prohibited. Area C, comprising 60% of the West Bank, was designated for Palestinian control under the Oslo Accords but remains under full Israeli control, hosting illegal Israeli settlements.
Obtaining permits to build homes is nearly impossible for Palestinians, leading many to construct without authorization. Israeli authorities frequently demolish such structures, displacing thousands and leaving families financially burdened by demolition costs.
Palestinian workers endure long waits at Israeli checkpoints each morning, with heavy restrictions on movement contributing to high unemployment rates. These challenges are further exacerbated by the ongoing Israeli bombardments in Gaza.
Israel collects huge taxes on behalf of the Palestinian Authority, withholding funds at times and impacting the PA’s ability to pay salaries. Palestinian trade relations are heavily restricted, with Israel controlling imports and exports. Destruction of Gaza’s airport further limits economic activity.
Israel restricts Palestinian access to advanced ICT equipment, hindering technological development and online freedom. Israel monopolizes water resources, resulting in unequal distribution and limited access, well below recommended standards. Cultural heritage sites, educational institutions, and infrastructure face destruction under Israeli bombardment.
Israel’s occupation threatens Palestine’s rich cultural heritage, with numerous sites destroyed or damaged in conflicts.
Palestinians endure daily challenges under Israeli occupation, with their rights and freedoms curtailed. International laws are violated, perpetuating a cycle of oppression and trauma. Despite ongoing struggles, Palestinians assert their resilience and determination for self-determination.
