Gaza watches Israel’s elections with fear and antipathy | Benjamin Netanyahu News
Gaza City – For the past three years, Palestinians in Gaza have faced widespread destruction and displacement. Since the outbreak of hostilities in October 2023, the conflict has resulted in over 70,000 deaths, profoundly affecting the lives of those who remain.
Israeli citizens are set to vote in national elections on October 27, a decision that could have significant implications for government policies concerning Gaza. Although Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank do not have a voice in this election, many are closely monitoring the political landscape, recognizing that the outcomes could directly impact their lives.
Maryam al-Dabala, a 30-year-old resident who has been displaced approximately 14 times during the ongoing conflict, expressed concern over the potential continuation of current policies under a new government. She fears that the election of Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right government would perpetuate the forced displacement of the Gazan population. “If Netanyahu’s far-right government wins, it will continue the policy of forced displacement,” she said.
Al-Dabala also questioned the potential for positive change should Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party and considered a frontrunner in the polls, be elected. Eisenkot was part of Netanyahu’s government during the early phase of the war and has supported controversial policies regarding settlements in the West Bank, raising doubts among Palestinians about any potential benefits from his leadership.
“Life is already very difficult due to shortages of medicine, food, and other necessities,” al-Dabala explained, noting that even their makeshift accommodations offer little protection against the elements and ongoing attacks.
Concern about the implications of the election looms large for many families, particularly as a ceasefire implemented on October 10 has failed to bring an end to violence. In the aftermath, at least 1,399 Palestinians have been killed and over 4,800 injured. The vast majority of Gaza’s residents have experienced displacement, often multiple times, and many are living in temporary shelters, such as tents or classrooms.
Osama al-Arbaei, 65, has been displaced more than a dozen times and recently lost nine family members when his home was bombed. Currently residing in a temporary shelter, he does not anticipate a positive change, regardless of the election results. “There may be small changes, but the fundamental issues will remain unchanged,” he said, emphasizing concerns over food prices and living conditions.
Despite his grim outlook, al-Arbaei maintains a resolute spirit. “I don’t fear anything. I leave it to God,” he remarked. “I have never left Gaza, and I will not leave, no matter what happens.”
Umm Mohammed Khalil, a 59-year-old widow displaced from northern Gaza, has witnessed numerous Israeli governments over her lifetime yet sees little distinction between their policies. She supports 19 family members and worries about the potential for renewed violence. “Every time, we hope the next leader will be better,” she said. “But they are all the same.”
Khalil’s message to Israeli voters is one of empathy. “Feel for us. We are also human beings,” she urged, expressing her wish for an end to the violence and injustice. She fears further escalation should Netanyahu return to power, lamenting, “Enough death, enough destruction, enough displacement.”
As the election date approaches, the focus on Gaza intensifies. Israeli affairs expert Ahed Farawaneh noted that the upcoming elections could shape approaches to ongoing military actions and displacement policies. Recent polling suggests that no single party may secure the necessary 61 seats in the Knesset to govern independently.
“The issue of Gaza and displacement are among the key topics in this election,” Farawaneh stated. He pointed out that a government led by Netanyahu, likely supported by right-wing parties, would probably sustain current policies in Gaza.
On the other hand, an opposition-led government may respond to international pressures that could lead to changes in policy regarding Gaza and the West Bank, yet would still face challenges from right-wing factions. For Gazans, the pivotal question remains whether the new government will alter the trajectory of ongoing conflict that has altered every aspect of their lives.
