(Photo by Sikander Iqbal via Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0)

At the end of 2023, given the situation in Gaza, we refrained from sharing any achievements or milestones we reached. This year is no different. The genocide in Gaza continues, escalating to an even larger and more brutal scale, with one relentless purpose: killing, killing, and killing.

Gaza: What Else Can People Still Suffer?

For over 450 days, the people of Gaza have endured and continue to endure a relentless campaign of genocide. Israel’s atrocities have been unyielding—entire families wiped out, people burnt alive, homes reduced to rubble, and vital infrastructure obliterated. The destruction extends to schools, places of worship, hospitals, and utilities essential for life. Gaza now faces a humanitarian catastrophe marked by, to mention a few, freezing cold, famine, and disease.

This year, journalism itself has faced a brutal reckoning. The number of journalists killed in Gaza by Israel has reached 201.

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As journalists, we ask: how can life continue as normal after the killing of Al Jazeera journalist and the voice of Gaza City, Ismael al-Ghoul, whose life ended with an Israeli airstrike that literally severed his head? How can journalists practice their profession as usual after the killing of Ayman al-Jadi, along with his colleagues in a broadcast van? Ayman was killed outside al-Awda Hospital, where he was waiting for his wife to give birth to their first child. That child, named Ayman, will grow up knowing his birth coincided with his father’s death, a tragic paradox that no child should bear.

In Gaza, journalists sacrifice their lives to tell the truth, but Israel continues to silence them with impunity, while much of the world watches in silence. The loss of such young, dedicated professionals is a devastating blow to journalism, humanity, and the pursuit of truth.

Global Crises and Loss

While Gaza endures its darkest days, other parts of the world also grapple with crises that demand attention. Civilians in Sudan face violence, displacement, and humanitarian collapse. Israel’s war on Lebanon has claimed many lives and caused widespread destruction. Meanwhile, recent aviation tragedies and countless other losses worldwide mark this as a year of profound grief.

Reflection and Responsibility

As we end this year, let us reflect on the collective loss of life, whether in Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan, or elsewhere. Consider the families left behind, the communities shattered, and the children who will grow up knowing only war and hardship.

In the countdown to 2025, remember that while some of us celebrate new beginnings, others count the moments until their suffering ends.

We encourage you to support humanitarian efforts and advocate for an end to oppression. Your actions can help save lives and bring some relief to the pain many people around the world are going through.

Thank you, and may we strive for a better, more just year ahead.