The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza underscores the urgent plight of its residents, who have endured significant displacement and violence that has claimed tens of thousands of lives over several years. As Israel prepares for its national election on October 27, the stakes are particularly high for Palestinians both in Gaza and the West Bank, whose futures depend on the policies of the next Israeli government. With leaders vying for power amid war-torn conditions, the decisions made in this election could profoundly impact the daily realities of life in these regions.
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Gaza City – For three years, residents of Gaza have grappled with the devastating aftermath of Israel’s military actions, leading to widespread destruction and significant displacement from their homes. Since the onset of the war in October 2023, more than 70,000 lives have been lost, leaving enduring scars on the population and shaping their uncertain future.
With Israel set to hold a decisive national election on October 27, the outcome will influence policies affecting Gaza and its inhabitants. Although Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank are excluded from voting, their attention is fixed on the campaign strategies of various political factions, as these results could have direct implications for their daily lives.
Maryam al-Dabala, a 30-year-old who has faced displacement over 14 times during the ongoing conflict, expresses her deep concern about whether the next Israeli government will perpetuate the current policies established under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Al-Dabala fears that a re-elected Netanyahu—potentially supported by far-right officials—will exacerbate forced displacements in Gaza.
For many Palestinians, the potential election of Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party, does not inspire hope for an improvement in their circumstances. Eisenkot previously served under the Netanyahu administration, and his support for West Bank settlements raises concerns among Gazans about the continuity of destructive policies. Faced with these choices, al-Dabala regards a government led by Netanyahu as the least desirable outcome.
The anxiety is palpable among the residents, particularly those who fear escalations after the elections, given the violence that remains a constant threat. Despite a supposed ceasefire that began on October 10, reports show that at least 1,399 Palestinians have lost their lives and thousands more have been injured since that date.
Displacement is now a shared experience for nearly the entire population of Gaza, with families—some repeatedly—living in makeshift shelters. Osama al-Arbaei, a 65-year-old man, has experienced displacement multiple times, losing nine family members in the chaos. Regardless of who wins the election, he remains skeptical that any meaningful progress will be made in alleviating their suffering.
Umm Mohammed Khalil, a 59-year-old widow displaced from her home in northern Gaza, reflects on her lived experience through various Israeli governments, noting minimal differences in their policies. She emphasizes her shared humanity with the Israeli electorate, urging compassion and an end to the violence.
The broader political landscape reflects deep concerns surrounding the war in Gaza, which remains prominent in the campaign rhetoric. Israeli affairs expert Ahed Farawaneh highlights the uncertainty of the election results, indicating that neither major coalition can secure a governing majority independently. Discussions around military actions and strategies surrounding displacement dominate both major parties’ campaigns.
While there is hope that an opposition-led government might be more receptive to international calls for change, any shift in policy would be tempered by pressure from far-right factions within Israel. For the people of Gaza, however, the critical question is not merely who assumes power, but whether new leadership can alter the devastating trajectory of their daily lives.
As the elections approach, the future remains uncertain for Gaza’s residents, who continue to hope for peace and a reversal of their harsh living conditions amid persistent turmoil. #MiddleEastNews #PoliticsNews