Palestinian citizens of Israel, often referred to as 'Israeli Arabs,' are mobilizing to participate in the upcoming Israeli elections to combat discrimination and seek equal rights. The Joint List, an alliance of four Arab parties, aims to increase voter turnout and secure more seats in the Knesset to challenge the right-wing government led by Binyamin Netanyahu. The alliance's formation is seen as a significant step towards unity among Palestinian Israelis and serves as a reminder to Palestinians under occupation of the importance of solidarity. The elections will test the Joint List's ability to deliver on its promises amidst internal and external challenges.

The article discusses the ongoing tensions between Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah, exacerbated by a recent attack on the Palestinian Broadcasting Corporation. Accusations fly between the two groups, with Fatah blaming Hamas for the attack and Hamas alleging involvement of former Fatah members. The divide has led to operational challenges at the Rafah border crossing and increased suffering for Gaza's residents. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's dissolution of the legislative council has further strained relations, with Hamas rejecting the move. The article highlights the broader implications of these tensions, including the impact on Israeli-Palestinian relations and the challenges of achieving Palestinian national unity.

Palestinian restaurant owners abroad emphasize their cultural heritage through decor and cuisine, countering Israeli attempts to appropriate Palestinian dishes. The article highlights the deep connection between Palestinian food and national identity, criticizing the labeling of traditional Palestinian dishes like hummus, falafel, and shakshuka as Israeli. It underscores the cultural significance of these foods and the broader implications of cultural appropriation on Palestinian identity.

US President Donald Trump's influence has shifted Middle East diplomatic interactions to Twitter, where US, Israeli, and Palestinian officials engage in public relations warfare rather than secret peace talks. The Palestinian leadership cut ties with Washington following Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Twitter has since been the main channel for communication, with officials exchanging accusations and positions. Palestinian officials, including Saeb Erekat and Hanan Ashrawi, have been vocal in their criticism of US policies and the upcoming Bahrain conference on Palestinian economy, which they plan to boycott. Israeli officials, such as Deputy Defence Minister Eli Ben-Dahan, have supported US decisions and criticized Palestinian actions. This digital diplomacy is a new phenomenon that has arisen during Trump's presidency.

Adnan Ghaith, the Palestinian governor of Jerusalem, was released from Israeli detention under house arrest conditions. His arrest, along with other Palestinians, is linked to suspicions of involvement with the Palestinian Authority (PA) and a controversial land sale. The PA condemned the arrests, viewing them as pressure tactics by Israel. The situation underscores the ongoing tensions over Jerusalem's status, with Israel asserting control and Palestinians seeking sovereignty over East Jerusalem.

Iceland has maintained strong solidarity with the Palestinian people since recognizing Palestine as an independent state in 2011. The Icelandic-Palestinian Friendship Association, established in 1987, continues to raise awareness and support for the Palestinian cause through various activities and events. Iceland's support for Palestine is evident in its diplomatic actions and the involvement of its citizens in solidarity efforts. The article highlights the contributions of individuals like Silja Palmadotti and Salman al-Tamimi in promoting Palestinian rights and cultural heritage.

Palestinians and human rights activists express concern over a proposed Israeli law that would criminalize filming Israeli soldiers, fearing it would hinder documentation of potential crimes. The bill, introduced after the killing of Palestinian protesters, is seen as a move to suppress media freedom and protect soldiers from accountability. Palestinian journalists and organizations like the Palestinian Journalists’ Syndicate and the International Federation of Journalists have condemned the proposal, urging international bodies to protect press freedom. The bill is backed by Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman and proposed by Robert Ilatov of the Yisrael Beiteinu party.

Palestinian activists are leveraging social media to counter Israeli narratives and media bias, particularly through the 'Ihbid' campaign. This digital movement, led by figures like Ameen A’abed and Hassan al-Dawood, aims to dispel misinformation and promote the Palestinian perspective. The campaign has garnered significant online support and engages in non-abusive, informative discussions. Activists face challenges, including social media account suspensions and threats, but remain committed to their cause. The text criticizes the Israeli military and Western media for biased coverage and highlights the role of technology in empowering Palestinian voices.

Sumud, meaning resilience in Arabic, symbolizes the enduring spirit of Palestinian resistance against Israeli occupation and colonization since the 1967 war. Despite decades of atrocities, Palestinians maintain their national identity and right of return. The concept of Sumud is deeply rooted in Palestinian culture, exemplified by acts of defiance, digital media preservation, and symbols like the olive tree. The text highlights the ongoing struggles in Gaza and the West Bank, including house demolitions and evictions, and criticizes international actions that undermine Palestinian rights. Despite despair, the spirit of Sumud persists, embodying resistance against submission and injustice.

Recent mass demonstrations in the West Bank, calling for the lifting of sanctions on Gaza, highlight a strong desire for Palestinian national unity. Palestinian Authority (PA) security forces cracked down on protesters, leading to arrests and injuries. The sanctions, ordered by President Mahmoud Abbas, have worsened Gaza's humanitarian situation. Activists and rights groups condemned the violence, while senior PA officials downplayed the sanctions as administrative measures. The protests have gained international momentum, with sit-ins in Lebanon and the UK. The article emphasizes that Palestinian unity is essential to face Israeli occupation and US pressure, and that lifting sanctions on Gaza would reduce tensions in the West Bank.