The Price of Occupation

The Price of Occupation: How the war on Gaza Affect the Live Israeli Settlers




Palestinians have long referred to those Zionists dwelling in illegal colonies established in their lands as "settlers." The term transcends its literal meaning, evoking the image of an invader, a thief—a phrase that encapsulates the Palestinian perspective on their continual suffering.


Since the beginning of Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, Hezbollah's primary focus has been on driving these "thieves" out of northern occupied Palestine, thereby rendering these areas increasingly dangerous for Israel.

Following months of conflict, the incidence of displaced settlers consuming substance abuse, both in the form of narcotics and alcohol, has surged by 10%.

This pattern can be attributed to the heightened prevalence of psychological distress among Israeli youth in the wake of the war in Gaza.

A significant challenge facing the Israeli authorities has to do with the future of these settlers. Since the onset of the war, they have taken refuge in 400 hotels, with the government covering the cost of their daily expenses.

Many of these settlers have been unemployed for months, and government assistance has been insufficient to alleviate their financial turmoil. In addition, the educational situation of approximately 16,710 students residing in northern areas has deteriorated, further exacerbating the prevailing social discontent.


Although these settlers may have initially decided to live in these colonies voluntarily, a sizable portion, 28%, now have no intention of returning to their settlements, and 26% remain unwilling to do so. The problems facing these invaders will only get more severe as the conflict drags on. Despite Israel's attempts to project a posture of victory, the worsening of the social landscape within the regime indicates Israel’s need to bring the war to a swift conclusion.