Over the past month, a campaign to collect food and humanitarian aid for Gaza residents drew wide-spread participation from Arab communities, far exceeding expectations. With around 300 trucks of aid gathered so far, this campaign, launched by the Standing Together to fill just one truck, has become a powerful opportunity for Arab citizens especially to relieve their sense of helplessness and take action in support of Gazan civilians.
The three-week campaign began in the Arab towns in the north, Sakhnin, Deir al-Asad, and Nazareth. It then moved to the Triangle region, and from there to the south, reaching Rahat and Hura. The original plan involved a single truck moving from one Arab town to another, collecting donations. However, the overwhelming response quickly showed that more trucks were needed.
Rula Daoud, co-director of Standing Together, highlighted the incredible public response, noting how people came forward to volunteer and contribute. “The public interest surpassed everything we anticipated, but it is incredibly touching and demonstrates just how much people feel compelled to do everything they can for Gaza,” Daoud said. Haviva Ner-Davi, one of the volunteers shares: “And what made it more moving, was that we were doing this together — Palestinian and Jewish Israelis of all ages, including children, the elderly, and the physically challenged, even amid a war between our nations. This was the first time I had experienced this kind of mass partnership initiative since before the war.” For many Arab volunteers, this was the first time they had witnessed Jewish sympathy for Palestinian suffering.
The people in Gaza are facing significant hardship due to the ongoing war and resulting dire humanitarian situation. For Arab citizens of Israel, this campaign has offered a long-awaited chance to support Gaza’s residents while also reclaiming a sense of agency. It also offered a safer way for Arab citizens to express their solidarity with Palestinian civilians, especially in a climate where speaking out can result in severe consequences. The campaign had a positive impact on morale in Arab-Palestinian towns: several other organizations around the country also independently organized aid collections in tandem.
For some, the campaign was more than just charity—it was also a form of protest against the war’s impact on civilians, enabling participants to express their views without the risks associated with public demonstrations. It also allowed for the creation of a more humane, non-violent, and cooperative environment. The shared efforts brought a sense of hope and positivity, offering a life-affirming alternative amid the surrounding despair.
Coordinating the aid transfer has been a particularly complex logistical challenge. The closure of most crossings into the Gaza Strip and blockades in certain areas in the area have added to the difficulty. Standing Together has worked closely with relevant Israeli security agencies and a UN body to ensure the safe transport of supplies to Gaza, with strict measures in place to prevent the aid from falling into the wrong hands.
Despite its success, the campaign has faced criticism, with some accusing organizers and volunteers of supporting terrorism, others questioning the motives of the organization. That said, for many involved, the campaign has been a source of inspiration, showing that there are still people willing to make a difference.
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