Palestinians across the occupied territories and the diaspora are commemorating the 77th anniversary of the Nakba, or “catastrophe,” which marks the mass displacement of Palestinians during the creation of the state of Israel in 1948.
Thousands gathered in cities across the West Bank and Gaza Strip, holding marches, waving Palestinian flags, and carrying keys symbolizing the homes lost by their ancestors. Sirens sounded across Palestinian cities at midday as people stood in silence to honor the more than 700,000 Palestinians who were forced to flee their homes or were expelled during the 1948 war.
The commemoration comes at a particularly tense time, with ongoing violence in Gaza, continued settlement expansion in the West Bank, and stalled peace efforts. In speeches and statements, Palestinian leaders emphasized the right of return for refugees and reiterated calls for an end to Israeli occupation.
“The Nakba is not a memory of the past — it is a continuing reality,” said Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in a televised address. “Our people continue to endure displacement, oppression, and injustice.”
The Nakba remains a central part of the Palestinian national identity. Events were held not only in the Palestinian territories but also in refugee camps across Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, as well as in cities around the world where Palestinians live in exile.
Israelis commemorate the establishment of their state on May 14, 1948, which Palestinians view as the beginning of their suffering. This dichotomy continues to fuel one of the most intractable conflicts in the world.
As the 77th anniversary is observed, many Palestinians and supporters renewed calls for international recognition of Palestinian rights and for progress toward a just and lasting peace.
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