Over the past year, around 42,000 Palestinians have died, and many more have been injured due to the Gaza war. In Pakistan and other countries, people have boycotted Israeli products in solidarity with Palestine, despite having minimal economic impact. However, Despite international laws, Gaza’s situation continues to deteriorate.
On October 7, 2023, a tragic event unfolded near the Re’im kibbutz, not far from Gaza’s border. Thousands of young people had gathered to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Sukkot when Hamas fighters launched an attack that led to over 1,100 Israeli deaths and took hostages. This attack marked one of the deadliest massacres in Israel’s history. In response, Israel initiated heavy airstrikes and started a Gaza war. Gaza, a densely populated area already suffering under a 16-year blockade.
A year later, Gaza remains a devastated land. Almost 42,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, and thousands more are injured. The destruction of Gaza’s farmland and infrastructure has left the population on the brink of starvation. According to the United Nations, these actions may meet the definition of genocide, a crime recognized internationally since 1946. The systematic destruction of a people, either in whole or in part, through killing, forced displacement, and severe conditions, is at the heart of the legal definition of genocide.
For the Palestinians, the past year has brought unimaginable suffering—families have been torn apart, homes destroyed, and communities displaced. The loss of farmland, hospitals, and shelter camps has left the territory crippled. Despite international laws and conventions, the situation in Gaza continues to worsen.
Minimal Effect Of Boycott
Meanwhile, many in Pakistan and across the world have expressed their solidarity with Palestine by boycotting Israeli products, similar to the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Although this boycott may not significantly affect Israel’s economy, it reflects a deeper moral stand. Like the story of the sparrow attempting to douse a fire with drops of water, those participating in the boycott feel driven by their conscience.
The boycott of brands like Coca-Cola and Pepsi, widely linked with the U.S. support for Israel, gained momentum last year in Pakistan. Local brands like Cola Next and Pakola saw increased market share as people began choosing alternatives. However, the financial impact on Israel and large corporations remains minimal, with global giants like PepsiCo and Coca-Cola maintaining their dominant positions.
Despite the limited economic influence, the movement reflects the importance of collective voice and action. Just as the sparrow continues to bring drops of water to the fire, boycotters feel compelled to express their opposition, no matter how small the impact may seem. It is a reminder that, sometimes, the most important action we can take is to stand by our principles.
