REFLECTIONS AND CHALLENGES GOING INTO 2025

By Jake

11 January 2025

Hostage Liri Albag's relatives demonstrated in support of a ceasefire deal in Tel Aviv, hoping for a deal to bring her home. (Credit Getty Images)

We cannot allow the war between Israel and Iran-backed militias, and the innocent people who have suffered because of it, to fall out of the news. Even though it seems many are holding their breath, waiting for the new president of the United States to take office, there are always new developments, like the long-overdue election in Lebanon. President Aoun shows promise to be the uniting force many need, and will need to be involved in any negotiations regarding the withdrawal of Israeli troops.

The Middle East in 2025 will be defined by three men- Ali Khamenei, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Donald Trump. Khamenei, stripped of proxies to use against Israel, will be measuring the choice between backing off or launching another barrage of missiles, or even pursuing nuclear arms. Netanyahu will likely continue to dismiss long-term plans for Gaza and Lebanon, enabling settler groups with influence but angering IDF generals that don’t wish for a forever war on two fronts. Hostage families continue to protest, and strained diplomacy continues behind the scenes.

Trump is unlikely to wish for a war to overshadow his first months in office, and made strides in normalizing Arab-Israeli state relations in his first term. He’s not likely to champion the Palestinian cause nor pressure Netanyahu over humanitarian aid like the Biden administration. An isolationist and cost-cutting America will lessen the flow of arms, if war profiteers don’t intervene. The quick collapse of Assad’s regime in December could be a barometer for how Trump will act in 2025- he repeated that Syria was “not America’s fight.” I wonder if his new Lebanese son-in-law, his relation with Saudi Prince MBS, or a peace deal in Ukraine will affect Trump’s thinking.

Events in Israel and Palestine in the last year have been unpredictable, tragic, and emotional. Many of my worst fears about famine, settler violence, and expansion of the war came true. Yet in the ONE server, I saw many respectful disagreements and open conversations. We talked about history and politics, but also life and personal goals, becoming a community. I am beyond thankful to you reading this, and the entire ONE community for their support and participation in this past year.

The beginning of the year is always a time for reflection, yet even having the time to reflect is a privilege beyond measure. I was about to travel home, to enjoy family and warm food over Christmas, while others in Sudan, Ukraine, and of course Gaza are focused on their next meal, missing family and under the threat of warmongers. We must do more. We will, with your ideas, participation, and hope. Never let news become background noise - keep hope alive!

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