A History of Violence: Gaza Under Attack

From colonial violence to modern-day airstrikes, Gaza has long endured systematic assaults on its land, people, and future. This timeline traces major military campaigns and atrocities committed against Gaza and its surrounding areas, highlighting both the devastation and the unbreakable will of its people.

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Pre-1948: The Roots of Aggression

Before the establishment of Israel, Zionist militias such as Haganah and Irgun carried out attacks in towns near Gaza like Isdud (Ashdod) and Majdal (Ashkelon), laying the groundwork for future violence. Palestinian civilians were targeted and displaced, and villages in Gaza's vicinity were depopulated or destroyed.

2005: The "Disengagement"

In 2005, Israel withdrew its settlers and military bases from Gaza. However, this was not liberation. It marked the beginning of a full blockade by land, sea, and air—turning Gaza into what many describe as an open-air prison.

Major Military Operations:

2006 - Operation Summer Rains & Autumn Clouds
Israel launched airstrikes and ground incursions after the capture of an Israeli soldier. Hundreds of Palestinians were killed, and infrastructure was devastated.

2008-2009 - Operation Cast Lead
22-day assault resulted in over 1,400 Palestinian deaths, many of them civilians. Schools, homes, and hospitals were targeted.

2012 - Operation Pillar of Cloud
Eight-day operation killing over 160 Palestinians.

2014 - Operation Protective Edge
One of the deadliest assaults: over 2,200 Palestinians killed, including 500 children. Entire neighborhoods were flattened.

2018 - The Great March of Return
Thousands of unarmed protesters were met with live fire at the Gaza border. Over 300 were killed and thousands wounded.

2021 - Operation Guardian of the Walls
11 days of bombardment. 260+ Palestinians killed, including entire families.

2023 - October Escalation and Beyond
Following events in early October 2023, Israel launched an unprecedented, ongoing assault. Over 30,000 Palestinians have been killed to date, with continued strikes on hospitals, refugee camps, and shelters.

The Human Cost and Global Responsibility

Beyond the numbers are lives lost, families shattered, and futures stolen. Gaza remains a powerful symbol of resistance, endurance, and the ongoing struggle for justice. We must continue to raise awareness, demand accountability, and stand in solidarity.