The Truth on the Current Situation in Gaza

Two years after Hamas’s barbaric October 7, 2023, attack that claimed 1,139 Israeli lives and triggered the war, Gaza stands at a crossroads. The Gaza Ministry of Health reports over 67,000 Palestinian deaths and 170,000 injuries since then, figures that underscore the war’s toll. Yet, as of October 14, 2025, the ceasefire has ushered in cautious optimism: humanitarian teams are accessing previously isolated areas, and aid distributions are scaling up rapidly. Economically, Gaza’s pre-ceasefire GDP per capita had plummeted amid widespread poverty and unemployment rates exceeding 50%, a direct fallout from Hamas’s prioritization of rockets over reconstruction. Infrastructure—hospitals, schools, and water systems—lies in ruins. While the ceasefire halts active hostilities, the real challenge remains governance: without dismantling Hamas’s stranglehold, Gaza risks perpetual stagnation.

Unmasking the Propaganda: How Myths Sustain a Terrorist Regime

Hamas, designated a terrorist organization by the U.S., EU, and others, thrives on a web of disinformation that vilifies Israel while concealing its own abuses against Palestinians. This propaganda isn’t organic; it’s a calculated campaign amplified by social media and biased outlets, peddling myths that equate self-defense with aggression and whitewash Hamas’s atrocities. Take the enduring falsehood that Israel deliberately starves Gaza: In reality, restrictions stem from security checks to prevent weapons smuggling, yet Israel has consistently allowed aid far exceeding UN minimums—debunking claims of a “genocide” engineered through blockade. Another trope: Hamas doesn’t target civilians. Fact-checkers have exposed how the group embedded fighters in population centers, using schools and hospitals as shields, resulting in tragic but avoidable casualties. Viral videos falsely depicting “caged Israeli children” as hostages? Fabricated to inflame global outrage. Worse, this narrative ignores Hamas’s internal failures: Billions in Qatari and Iranian funds diverted to tunnels and missiles, leaving Gaza’s economy in tatters with 80% youth unemployment and crumbling services. Propaganda portrays Hamas as “resistance,” but it’s a regime that executes dissenters and hoards aid, perpetuating poverty to fuel endless conflict. Supporting such lies doesn’t liberate Palestinians—it entrenches their suffering under a terrorist yoke.

Exposing Hamas’s Propaganda Machine – A Terrorist Group Betraying Its Own

Hamas, enshrined on the U.S. State Department’s terrorist list since 1997, has weaponized misinformation to shield its military agenda at the expense of Gazan civilians. The group’s propaganda apparatus, including figures like the eliminated spokesman Abu Obeida, has fabricated crises to vilify Israel, from staging hospital “bombings” to exploiting images of ill children for viral outrage.

On the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, atrocities, U.S.-based activists echoed Hamas’s blame-shifting, ignoring how the group’s tunnel network—spanning over 500 kilometers—diverts cement and fuel from civilian infrastructure. This isn’t mere rhetoric; it’s a pattern of self-sabotage. Hamas’s governance has siphoned aid for rocket production and elite enrichment, leaving Gazans to bear the brunt. Senator Tom Cotton aptly summarized in July 2025: “Hamas wants the world to believe that Israel has undertaken a campaign of deliberate starvation,” when evidence shows the opposite—Hamas hoarding supplies amid its own failures. This internal predation stifles growth: Gaza’s unemployment hovers at 45%, not due to external pressures, but because Hamas prioritizes jihad over jobs. The ceasefire’s hostage releases—over 100 Palestinians freed from Israeli custody—further reveal Hamas’s duplicity, as reunited families report abuse not from Israel, but from their captors.

Gaza: The Current Humanitarian Landscape – Challenges from Within

There is food in Gaza. Its just not being distributed by the UN

Contrary to alarmist headlines, Gaza is not in the throes of deliberate starvation orchestrated by Israel. As of mid-October 2025, following the ceasefire, humanitarian aid has surged into the territory, with the United Nations reporting preparations to deliver over 170,000 metric tons of food, medicine, and supplies—enough to sustain 2.1 million residents for the initial phase. Israel’s coordination has facilitated this influx, including the safe return of displaced Palestinians to their homes and the dismantling of temporary aid sites like those operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), now obsolete due to normalized deliveries. Claims of a “famine” or Israeli-imposed starvation policy are not only unsubstantiated but represent a calculated distortion. An Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) investigation in August 2025 categorically rejected assertions of widespread malnutrition deaths attributable to policy, noting that isolated cases were exacerbated by Hamas’s diversion of resources rather than any blockade.

Independent analyses, including those from the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs, have labelled these narratives a “fraud,” pointing to inflated data from Hamas-controlled health authorities that the UN has uncritically amplified. Cam Higby was in Gaza and like many other exposed the lie. All food would pass every level of IDF inspection and cross the Karem Shalom border. It would now be the responsibility of the U.N. to distribute it, they didn’t.

According to the U.N. Only 7% of its distribution trucks inside of the strip have reached the population. More often than not, they’re raided by armed marauders or Hamas. The U.N. Has cited safety concerns as a reason for not distributing effectively but has also turned down offers to have IDF escorts. In economic terms, this propaganda has real costs: it deters investment and prolongs instability, keeping Gaza’s GDP per capita stagnant at around $1,000—levels that could double with secure aid channels and demilitarization.

The UN’s Complicity in Perpetuating the Crisis

While Israel facilitates aid, the United Nations—particularly The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East —has deliberately exacerbated Gaza’s woes through biased reporting and operational inefficiencies. UN-backed famine assessments in August 2025, which claimed over 500,000 in “catastrophic hunger,” relied on unverifiable Hamas data, later debunked as “fabricated” by watchdogs like UN Watch. The Institute for National Security Studies highlighted how these reports ignore Hamas’s aid looting, instead framing Israel as the sole villain—a narrative that delays real solutions. Financially, this dysfunction is glaring: UNRWA’s $1.6 billion annual budget yields fragmented relief, with audits revealing up to 10% lost to corruption—funds that could fund Gaza’s desalination upgrades. By amplifying propaganda, the UN discourages donor confidence, trapping aid in bureaucratic silos.

Israel’s Enduring Support in Palestinian Stability and Growth

Contrary to the one-sided portrayals, Israel has been a steadfast partner in Palestinian welfare, channelling billions in aid and infrastructure that foster long-term economic resilience. Since the war’s outset, Israel has facilitated the delivery of over 1.3 million tons of humanitarian supplies—food, medicine, fuel, and shelter materials—into Gaza, often in coordination with international allies. The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) meticulously tracks these efforts, ensuring safe passage through crossings like Kerem Shalom and Erez, even under the duress of ongoing threats. Beyond immediate relief, Israel’s contributions extend to foundational services that underpin prosperity. For decades, Israel has supplied Gaza with 80-90% of its electricity, desalinated over 20 million cubic meters of water annually (meeting 10-15% of needs), and enabled tens of thousands of Palestinians to work in Israel, injecting $500 million yearly into Gaza’s economy pre-war. Medical evacuations are another hallmark: since 2000, Israel has treated over 200,000 Palestinians in its hospitals, including complex cases from Gaza, free of charge. In 2024-2025 alone, amid the conflict, Israel approved aid convoys carrying 500,000 tons of flour and 300,000 tons of rice, countering famine risks despite Hamas’s diversion of supplies for military use.

Israel’s Enduring Positive Contributions to Palestinian Prosperity

Israel’s track record of goodwill toward Palestinians is a testament to its democratic ethos and strategic foresight—actions that foster long-term economic interdependence. Even amid conflict, Israel has enabled over 20,000 Gazans to access medical treatment in Israeli hospitals annually, a lifeline that saved thousands of lives pre-2023 escalation. Post-ceasefire, Israel has greenlit reconstruction phases under the Arab League’s March 2025 plan, committing to six months of unfettered aid and infrastructure rebuilding in Gaza City and Khan Yunis. Economically, Israel’s innovations have indirectly benefited Gaza: desalination plants supply 20% of the Strip’s water, while joint agricultural tech transfers have boosted Palestinian yields by 30% in the West Bank—initiatives ripe for Gaza replication. The January 2025 ceasefire phase allowed “sufficient” humanitarian flows, paving the way for private sector revival, including tech hubs that could employ 50,000 youth. These aren’t concessions; they’re investments in stability, aligning with values of self-reliance and mutual benefit. As President Trump’s involvement in the October deal demonstrates, strong U.S.-Israel ties yield dividends for all parties.

Written By tatenda Belle Panashe

]]> https://ln24international.com/2025/10/15/navigating-the-gaza-narrative-facts-aid-and-the-cost-of-misinformation/feed/ 0 https://ln24international.com/2025/08/08/eu-to-ban-private-messaging-chat-control-plan-could-enable-mass-surveillance-by-october/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=eu-to-ban-private-messaging-chat-control-plan-could-enable-mass-surveillance-by-october https://ln24international.com/2025/08/08/eu-to-ban-private-messaging-chat-control-plan-could-enable-mass-surveillance-by-october/#respond Fri, 08 Aug 2025 06:55:41 +0000 https://ln24international.com/?p=26446 The EU is pushing a controversial “Chat Control” bill that would mandate mass scanning of private chats — including encrypted messages on WhatsApp, Signal, and other secure platforms. It targets encrypted chats. Despite privacy concerns, the bill would force apps to scan for CSAM (child abuse material), even in end-to-end encrypted messages. Denmark is leading the push. The Danish EU presidency aims for a final vote by October 14, 2025 — but many countries are still undecided. Previous attempts failed. Poland, Belgium, and others tried softer versions, but critics warn this draft is even more extreme. Why does this matter? Encryption is at risk. Scanning encrypted chats weakens privacy for everyone — opening doors to mass surveillance. It’s a slippery slope. The EU’s ProtectEU strategy (revealed June 2025) also seeks law enforcement access to encrypted data by 2030. Final negotiations are underway — Denmark needs to convince skeptical EU members. Tech companies & privacy advocates strongly oppose it, warning of unprecedented surveillance. Your private chats could soon be under EU scrutiny.

The rise of the surveillance state

The rise of the surveillance state is becoming increasingly evident, as cameras now monitor individuals walking through public streets and sidewalks in various urban and suburban settings. A simple stroll around the neighbourhood, complete with conversations, can easily be recorded if cities employ surveillance-equipped streetlights. Even front yards are not shielded from surveillance; neighbours with “smart” doorbells can share footage with law enforcement. This intrusion extends beyond city limits, as Automatic License Plate Reader cameras are cropping up along rural highways and county borders, while audio and video surveillance infiltrates remote regions like the Amazon Basin. With advancements in satellite technology, it seems unlikely that any corner of the globe will remain unmonitored in the future. The modern surveillance state wields unprecedented power, and the notion that there is no expectation of privacy in public no longer stands against the vast amounts of data being collected, stored, and analysed.

Despite the looming threats posed by this “Big Brother” phenomenon, critics often find themselves underrepresented in mainstream media. When news outlets do discuss citizen surveillance, they frequently frame it as a necessary solution, while glossing over the potential risks to civil liberties. So, why aren’t more citizens voicing concerns about these invasions of privacy, and in some cases, even endorsing them? One explanation may lie in the way these systems are marketed as protective measures for society, even though they may actually represent the greatest threats to freedom. The tactic of using fear to consolidate power is nothing new, and despite having more access to information than ever, citizens still find themselves susceptible to manipulation.

Each decade has brought its own wave of moral panic, often accompanied by “solutions” that encroach upon civil liberties. The justification for today’s surveillance state traces back to September 11, 2001, when fear stemming from those events led to the acceptance of unconstitutional provisions like The PATRIOT Act, real-time crime centers, and the TSA. The government managed to enforce security measures that would have faced strong resistance under normal circumstances. With the public increasingly accepting surveillance, it became easy to extend these measures from airports to city streets, fueled by sensational stories of gang violence and other societal issues. Additionally, divisive rhetoric surrounding illegal immigration has further driven the expansion of surveillance, normalizing privacy violations and promoting technologies as solutions for non-violent offenses such as littering and traffic infractions. Government programs are also leveraging surveillance to micromanage travelers’ behavior while claiming to protect the environment from climate change. The average citizen is gradually being conditioned to view the surveillance state as a necessary evil, with some even embracing it as a means to feel safer. However, this acceptance comes at a significant cost to civil liberties, making it crucial to recognize the dangers associated with this expanding surveillance apparatus. Authorities are manipulating fear and misinformation to justify the growth of surveillance, and it is vital for citizens to stay informed about these tactics and demand greater transparency and accountability from their governments. The future of civil liberties hinges on this awareness, and addressing these issues is essential before it’s too late.

The swift expansion of the surveillance state is a multifaceted issue, driven by various factors. A primary motivator is the age-old tactic of using fear to consolidate power, which governments and institutions have long employed. By magnifying narratives surrounding crime, terrorism, and other threats, authorities can rationalize the enforcement of security measures that would typically face public backlash. Technologies like surveillance-enabled streetlights and Automatic License Plate Reader cameras are promoted as solutions, but they pose serious risks to civil liberties.

The normalization of privacy violations

The normalization of privacy violations is another key factor in the surveillance state’s growth. As citizens grow accustomed to being constantly watched, they become less likely to challenge the expansion of surveillance. This trend is alarming, as it can result in a significant erosion of civil liberties and a shift toward a more authoritarian society. The government, along with other institutions, is increasingly using surveillance to control citizens’ behavior, which can severely impact individual freedom and autonomy. Furthermore, the use of surveillance to generate revenue raises additional concerns, as it creates a troubling incentive for governments to continue expanding surveillance measures. By enforcing laws and regulations through surveillance, authorities can generate significant income, which is then reinvested into further enhancing surveillance capabilities. This creates a self-perpetuating cycle where the growth of surveillance leads to increased revenue, which subsequently fuels additional surveillance initiatives. The implications of the surveillance state on civil liberties are profound. As citizens become more accustomed to being monitored, they may become less inclined to assert their rights and freedoms. Additionally, the micromanagement of behavior through surveillance can lead to a loss of individual autonomy, forcing citizens to conform to specific norms and expectations. The normalization of privacy violations can also erode trust in institutions and disrupt social cohesion.

Advanced technologies can seriously jeopardize the privacy and safety of its citizens

While many people focus on issues like gangs, littering, and drunk driving, they often miss other important threats that require our attention. A government that employs advanced technologies can seriously jeopardize the privacy and safety of its citizens. Unfortunately, the media frequently overlooks this unprecedented risk, which echoes historical patterns seen around the world. Ignoring this issue could lead to severe repercussions for society. The technologies currently being used in our communities mirror those that oppress citizens in countries like China, where systems like social credit and ethnic cleansing are prevalent. Journalists and political dissidents who expose government corruption often suffer harsh penalties, including being denied basic resources, suitable housing, and the freedom to travel. In more authoritarian regimes, such as Myanmar, governments have used facial recognition technology to hunt down and execute political opponents. Entrusting such significant power to even small governments can be dangerous. Historical abuses, exemplified by practices like civil asset forfeiture, reveal how easily a surveillance state can be misused, often under the guise of judicial protection. Even when artificial intelligence identifies real crimes, the evidence it provides is often unreliable. Another major threat arises from the widespread collection of data without proper consent or oversight. The everyday activities of average Americans are closely monitored and analyzed with minimal regulation, creating vulnerabilities not just from state agents but also from corporations that handle this data. Individuals risk having their personal information exposed due to security breaches, often without ever having shared that information willingly. If someone becomes a target, state actors can compile extensive details about their life while pursuing a crime to charge them with. It’s crucial to have an open conversation about surveillance. Focusing too much on certain fears has eroded personal freedoms, while other valid concerns—especially those related to government intrusion into citizens’ private lives—have largely gone unaddressed.

Partner of Facebook and Google Admits Smartphone Microphones Listen to Conversations

Smartphone Microphones Listen to Conversations before Showing Ads

A Partner of Facebook and Google Admits Smartphone Microphones Listen to Conversations Before Showing Ads. The website 404 Media references a marketing presentation that reveals the use of “Active Listening” software. This technology uses a form of AI to “obtain real-time intent data by listening to conversations.” The presentation was made by Cox Media Group (CMG), a telecom giant that is one of Facebook’s marketing partners. CMG claimed that Amazon, Facebook, and Google are clients using “Active Listening.” However, after the publication on 404 Media, Google removed CMG from its list of partners. Amazon stated that it does not use this technology. Meta (Facebook’s parent company) said it has begun reviewing its relationship with CMG to ensure the group hasn’t violated any terms of service. The capabilities of Cox Media Group to listen in on users became known in December 2023, but without detailed information. Allegedly, the eavesdropping is permitted by the terms of use of certain apps. But in a congressional hearing in 2018, Mark Zuckerberg claimed that they don’t Use Mobile Device Microphones to listen in on users. So Zucks lied.

Surveillance capitalism is turning human beings into raw material

If they are just gathering this information to show me products, it sounds like a nice service! The issue is when it’s weaponized into a system of total control which turns the control into the next source of profits. Surveillance capitalism has its roots in the early days of the internet, when companies like Google and Facebook exploited the “ungoverned spaces” of the digital realm. The dot-com bust, the success of Apple’s consumer-centric approach, and the surveillance-friendly environment created by the US National Security Agency (NSA) and CIA’s investments in the “war on terror” all contributed to the rise of surveillance capitalism.

Surveillance capitalism is a novel economic system that has emerged in the digital era. It is characterized by the unilateral claim of private human experience as free raw material for translation into behavioural data. In this version of capitalism, predicting and influencing behaviour (political and economic) rather than producing goods and services is the primary product. This economic logic prioritizes extracting, processing, and trading personal data to predict and influence human behaviour by exploiting those predictions for various economic (marketing) and political objectives.

In essence, surveillance capitalism is turning human beings into raw material, but our data is extracted. That is the capital of today, big data is the new oil and then it’s used to try to manipulate us.

Surveillance Capitalism Is Powering the Modern Surveillance State

In many cases, surveillance capitalism merges with psywar tools and technologies to power the modern surveillance state, giving rise to a new form of Fascism (public-private partnerships) known as techno-totalitarianism. Leading corporations employing the surveillance capitalism business model include Google, Amazon, and Facebook. Surveillance capitalism has now fused with the science and theory of psychology, marketing, and algorithmic manipulation of online information to give rise to propaganda and censorship capabilities that go far beyond those imagined by the 20th-century predictions of Aldous Huxley and George Orwell.

There is loss of autonomy. Surveillance capitalism erodes individual autonomy as users are manipulated and influenced by algorithms designed to predict and shape their behaviour. It’s a threat to democracy. The concentration of power in the hands of surveillance capitalists undermines democratic processes, as they use their influence to shape public opinion and policy. It also leads to economic inequality: The wealth generated by surveillance capitalism exacerbates economic inequality, as those who own and control the data and algorithms reap the benefits while users are exploited as free commodities.

Covid was meant to normalize biometric surveillance

But it even goes beyond that. Advisor to the WEF, Yuval Noah Harari admitted that Covid was critical because this is what convinces people to accept total biometric surveillance, which will enable the Stalins of the 21st century” to monitor and analyse the brains of all the population, all the time.

In summary, the expansion of the surveillance state is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including the exploitation of fear, the normalization of privacy invasions, and the monetization of surveillance. The consequences for civil liberties are significant, making it imperative to acknowledge the risks associated with this trend. Citizens must remain vigilant, demanding greater transparency and accountability from their governments to safeguard their rights and freedoms. The future of civil liberties depends on this awareness, and it is essential to confront these challenges before it becomes too late.

Written By Tatenda Belle Panashe