Gaza: worse by the day

By Alon-Lee Green, National Co-Director of Standing Together

In Gaza, the situation is growing more dire by the day. The Israeli army’s control is becoming increasingly entrenched. The siege is tightening. Entire communities in northern Gaza are being forcibly removed, with undeniable signs of ethnic cleansing. Every day, dozens of Palestinians are killed. The army has expanded the Netzarim corridor, while permanent infrastructure like cellular towers are being set up — clear signs of a grim future of prolonged occupation and control.The Israeli hostages remain in constant and growing danger, deep in Hamas’ tunnels. Their lives hang in the balance as government ministers prioritise consolidating their power over rescuing the hostages.

Meanwhile, political developments within Israel are devastating. Netanyahu has solidified his hold on power until at least 2026, firing Defense Minister Gallant and bringing Gideon Saar into his coalition, securing 68 seats of “Yes men”. With no opposition left within his government, Netanyahu now has the full backing he needs to push his agenda. Yes, including settlements in Gaza and the attack on the nuclear facilities of Iran. Adding to this, the far-right extremists in the Knesset are openly celebrating Donald Trump’s presidential victory and the ultra-nationalist, extremist appointments already taking shape in the United States. The alignment between the extreme right here in Israel and in the US is deeply troubling — a recipe for disaster for us all.

This is the reality we’re facing. It’s devastating, and there are no easy answers. If there is a path forward, it is a long and challenging one. And we still believe there is one. We must continue organising within Israeli society, talking with each and every person in our society, taking to the streets, building broad coalitions, and driving home the truth that peace and equality for Israelis and Palestinians is the only way forward. This work is not easy, but it’s essential. This year wasn’t easy, and the years to come aren’t going to be as well. Your ongoing support ensures we can keep going, turning our vision of a future where everyone here lives with freedom, safety, and equality into a reality.

A future with no occupation and no war.

• Republished from UK Friends of Standing Together