The fragile truce in Gaza offers a deceptive calm this Thanksgiving, a stark contrast to the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe unfolding within the Strip. While a temporary cessation of hostilities may seem like a reason for respite, the reality for Palestinians remains one of profound loss, displacement, and enduring trauma. To speak of gratitude while families are actively mourning, while rubble continues to define the landscape, feels profoundly dissonant – particularly on a holiday that, for many in the United States, commemorates a history of dispossession and violence against Indigenous peoples.
For those whose perspectives remain firmly aligned with the Israeli government, despite mounting evidence of civilian harm, a shift in viewpoint at the dinner table seems improbable. Attempts at persuasion may prove futile when confronted with ideologies that deny the full humanity of Palestinians. The chasm of understanding can feel insurmountable.
Navigating these difficult conversations within my own family, a British Jewish household with differing views, has been deeply painful. There is no easy advice to offer. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the devastation in Gaza is far from over, and any pretense of normalcy is a disservice to those suffering.
This Thanksgiving, my thoughts are with a student from Gaza whose family remains trapped in the conflict zone.
The divisions within families like mine pale in comparison to the suffering experienced by those directly impacted by the conflict. My focus this Thanksgiving is on a former student from Gaza, who managed to escape the bombardment in 2024, only to learn that his mother and another family member were killed when their home was destroyed. His remaining family members are now living in makeshift tents, and he has been without contact with them for over two weeks. It is for families like his that a superficial sense of peace cannot be accepted.
The Illusion of a Ceasefire: Ongoing Destruction in Gaza
The October 10th agreement, while providing a marginal reduction in the intensity of attacks, has not brought genuine relief to Palestinians. Displacement, starvation, and the killing of civilians continue. Rather than a complete halt to hostilities, the last 45 days have witnessed a continuation of Israeli bombings, albeit at a slightly reduced rate. Reports indicate that Israel has caused the deaths of 345 Palestinians in Gaza, including a heartbreaking 120 children, and has demolished over 1,500 structures.
Furthermore, the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, as stipulated by the ceasefire agreement, has been severely restricted. Israeli forces have permitted only a fraction of the promised aid trucks to enter, exacerbating the already dire situation of mass hunger. The Gaza Strip is now covered in an estimated 50 million tons of rubble, concealing the remains of over 10,000 unrecovered bodies. This is not a ceasefire; it is a pause in the relentless destruction.
While international support for the Palestinian cause has demonstrably grown, and numerous human rights organizations have recognized Israel’s actions as potentially genocidal, these declarations offer little solace to those directly affected. The recent wave of nations recognizing the state of Palestine, including France, Canada, and Britain, is a positive step, but it lacks the concrete consequences needed to bring about meaningful change.
“What we need is a justice plan,” Mosab Abu Toha, a Palestinian writer and poet, told a recent U.N. meeting. “It is time to stop accepting the illusion of peace processes that only entrench injustices.” His words serve as a powerful reminder that true peace requires accountability and a commitment to fundamental rights.
The prospect of holding Israeli leaders accountable for potential war crimes appears distant. However, shifts in public opinion and political landscapes offer glimmers of hope. The election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City mayor represents a significant victory against the weaponization of antisemitism to silence criticism of Israeli policies. It is now incumbent upon New Yorkers to demand that their mayor uphold commitments to Palestinian solidarity and international law.
Beyond political action, practical support is essential. Contributing to organizations providing aid and resources to Palestinians is a tangible way to make a difference. Furthermore, supporting the Palestinian-led Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement can exert economic pressure on institutions complicit in the occupation and apartheid.
Solidarity, as activists often say, begins at home. But for many, home is a place of conflict and division. If you find yourself spending the holidays with family members who hold opposing views, remember that the work continues beyond the dinner table. The weekend will pass, but the urgent need for justice and liberation will remain.
What responsibility do individuals have to advocate for human rights, even when faced with personal discomfort or familial tension? And how can we ensure that our expressions of solidarity translate into meaningful action that supports the Palestinian people?
Frequently Asked Questions About the Gaza Conflict
What is the current status of the ceasefire in Gaza?
The current agreement, reached on October 10th, has brought a temporary reduction in hostilities, but it is not a comprehensive ceasefire. Israeli forces continue to conduct operations, and the flow of aid remains restricted.
How many Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the start of the conflict?
As of November 27, 2025, reports indicate that Israel has caused the deaths of 345 Palestinians in Gaza, including 120 children. The true number is likely higher due to the difficulty of accessing accurate information.
What is the humanitarian situation like in Gaza?
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic. Mass hunger is widespread, and the healthcare system is on the brink of collapse. Over 10,000 bodies remain unrecovered beneath the rubble.
What is the role of international law in the Gaza conflict?
Many international legal experts and organizations argue that Israel’s actions in Gaza constitute war crimes and potentially genocide. However, accountability remains a significant challenge.
What can individuals do to support Palestinians?
Individuals can support Palestinians by donating to humanitarian organizations, advocating for political change, and participating in the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement.
Share this article to amplify the voices of those affected by the ongoing crisis in Gaza and join the conversation in the comments below. Let’s continue to demand justice and accountability for all.
Disclaimer: This article provides information and analysis on a complex geopolitical situation. It is not intended to provide legal or medical advice.
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