May 2021 Gaza War: A Balance Sheet

Palestinians across Gaza, the West Bank, East Jerusalem and communities inside Israel held a general strike against the Gaza bombardment, occupation and dispossession.

Air strikes and rocket fire persisted as the general strike expressed Palestinian solidarity across political and geographic divisions.

Hostilities continued while mediators pressed for a ceasefire and humanitarian agencies warned of needs in Gaza.

Israel and Palestinian armed groups continued their attacks while diplomatic efforts intensified to bring the fighting to an end.

An Egyptian-brokered ceasefire took effect, ending eleven days of major fighting between Israel and Palestinian armed groups in Gaza.

Naftali Bennett became Israeli prime minister in a coalition arrangement with Yair Lapid, ending Benjamin Netanyahu’s previous term in office.

During the annual Israeli settler flag march in Jerusalem, Israeli forces dispersed Palestinian protesters; the event underscored tensions over East Jerusalem.

Hamas political bureau leader Ismail Haniyeh presented the movement’s proposals for advancing the Palestinian cause and addressing political division.

West Bank voters took part in municipal council elections, one of the few forms of electoral participation available amid the absence of national elections.

UNESCO inscribed Palestinian embroidery, known as tatreez, on its list of intangible cultural heritage, recognizing the skills and traditions passed through generations.