A reflection on the past year since the outbreak of war on October 7 highlights the profound changes experienced by people in Israel, the Gaza Strip, the region, and globally. Over the last year, journalists have documented the significant suffering endured by individuals in Gaza, Israel, the occupied West Bank, and Lebanon.
The conflict ignited when Hamas militants launched an assault from the Gaza Strip, attacking soldiers, civilians, and a music festival, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages taken, as reported by Israeli officials.
Since then, Israeli society has been deeply divided. Many have engaged in protests advocating for a cease-fire and the release of hostages, while others have called on the government to intensify military actions against Hamas, even impeding humanitarian aid to Gaza.
In Gaza, the landscape has drastically changed over the past year. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that Israeli military actions have resulted in the deaths of over 41,000 Palestinians, with many families devastated. More than half of the casualties are women and children, and around 100,000 individuals have sustained injuries, including many children suffering from amputations.
Currently, nearly all residents of Gaza have been displaced, living in damaged schools and makeshift tents without access to electricity, clean water, or safe environments.
This article features a collection of poignant moments captured over the past year, showcasing the ongoing impact of the war on the region’s people as documented by various photographers.