I visited Palestine and Israel shortly after Hamas’ victory in the 2006 election, while Israel’s conflict with Hamas and Hezbollah was coming to an end. During my time in East Jerusalem, I witnessed the impact of the Gaza blockade, which led to economic collapse and widespread unemployment.
Despite the election results, which suggested support for terrorism, polling showed that a majority of voters in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem supported peace with Israel. The United States and Europe responded to the election by boycotting the Palestinian Authority due to Hamas’ involvement, leading to aid being provided through civil society organizations.
As a humanitarian worker, I observed the impact of the blockade on Gaza’s economy and the daily struggles of the population. This led to the implementation of aid programs aimed at providing crucial support to families and communities.
Over the years, our efforts evolved to include projects such as building a water desalination system and providing education and skills training to youth. However, these initiatives faced challenges due to political tensions and restrictions imposed by international funders regarding engagement with Hamas authorities.
The repeated outbreaks of violence, resulting in significant loss of life and destruction, highlighted the need for sustained humanitarian assistance in the region. Israel’s blockade of Gaza and its limited access to construction materials led to the emergence of a black market, allowing Hamas to thrive and stockpile weapons.
The recent conflict in Gaza has raised concerns about the continued suffering of civilians and the potential for long-term reconstruction efforts. The international community, including the United States, is called upon to play a pivotal role in supporting the recovery and rebuilding process.
In light of the current situation, it is essential for President Biden to reconsider aid to Israel and advocate for an end to the siege of Gaza and the military occupation of the West Bank. The goal is to ensure the safety, dignity, and human rights of all people in the region, and to pave the way for a hopeful and peaceful future.
Andy Dwonch, a veteran of the international humanitarian aid industry, provides insight into the challenges faced in the region and the need for a radical change in direction.
Historically, Israel has faced conflict and tension with various factions in the region, such as Hamas and Hezbollah. The ongoing conflict has resulted in devastating consequences for the civilian population in Gaza, leading to increased reliance on humanitarian aid for survival.
Overall, the current situation in Gaza underscores the urgent need for a shift in approach and a renewed focus on rebuilding lives and ensuring a brighter future for all involved.
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