(Photo by Diane Krauthamer via Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED)

As a growing youth-led publication, we usually take the last day of the year as an opportunity to reflect on the work we do and the milestones we have reached. But given the catastrophic situation in Gaza, including the killing of fellow journalists and their families, highlighting our achievements seems inappropriate and even unprofessional. 

Here are a Few Important Highlights from Gaza, Though

In 86 days, Israel has dropped more than the equivalent of two nuclear bombs on the Gaza Strip, destroying over 70% of the homes in the besieged enclave and rendering over 1.5 million people homeless. Through the intensive use of unguided (dump) bombs, bunker busters, white phosphorus, and other types of weapons, Israel has killed at least 21,822 people, including 8,800 children and 6,300 women, and injured more than 56,165 others. 

Despite global demonstrations demanding a ceasefire, the international community has responded to Israel’s atrocities with silence and, in many cases, support. As the war on Gaza enters its third month, the United Nations Security Council has yet to pass a binding ceasefire resolution, exposing an unconscionable failure in protecting human rights and preserving the international order. The ongoing genocide in Gaza is a vivid reminder that  international organizations like the UN do not always serve humanity, but they always serve the interests of the world’s major powers and their allies (i.e. the US and Israel).

The lack of condemnation in response to the Israeli horrific attack on Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital has allowed Israel to continue its series of war crimes, extending to the bombing and invasion of most hospitals and health facilities in Gaza. As a result, hospitals in northern Gaza are now either non-operational or functioning at minimal capacity. The overwhelming influx of injured people and severe shortage of medical supplies have also forced hospitals across the Strip to treat wounded patients on the floor and resort to limb amputations without anesthesia.

Today, Gaza’s once vibrant spaces – playgrounds, sidewalks, and schools – have transformed into graveyards. The people of Gaza face threats not only from air, land, and sea Israeli strikes but also from the challenges of starvation, dehydration, the spread of diseases, and the deprivation of humanitarian aid.

These are just a few glimpses, but the situation in Gaza really defies adequate description. 

Think About Gaza

As we conclude this year, take a moment to reflect on the thousands of orphans and parents who have lost their children. Consider those grappling with chronic diseases and the thousand of women who, having just given birth, face the challenge of feeding their infants. Contemplate the families seeking shelter in inadequately equipped tents, exposed to harsh weather conditions. Ponder the last time the people in Gaza experienced the luxury of a meal, clean water, or a shower. Let your thoughts encompass the profound pain and suffering endured by every single person in Gaza.

2024 Countdown

As we count down to the new year, it is important to remember that in Gaza, people are counting the minutes for a ceasefire. In this season of new beginnings, let us not forget that Gazans yearn for an end to the genocide, ethnic cleansing, occupation, and the suffocating sea, land, and air blockade, and many other forms of Israeli oppression. 

While we at Spheres of Influence could ask for your support to cover our basic costs in 2024, we instead urge you to make a difference by donating to Gaza and contributing to the end of their profound suffering. Your generosity can bring hope and relief to those in desperate need.

Thank you, and “Happy” new year!