The conflict between Israel and Palestine is almost impossible to ignore. While the conflict itself dates back almost a century, things have only gotten worse in recent years. Ever since Israel’s assault on Gaza began on October 7, 2023, the conflict has dominated headlines and the brutality of the conflict has been staggering.

According to a recent article by ABC, since October 7, Israel’s attacks have killed 67,160 people, with an additional 2,000 dead in Israel. Simply put, something needs to be done. On September 17, in Wembley Arena, some of the biggest celebrities in the world held the Together for Palestine Fundraiser. Here’s a look at the Together for Palestine Fundraiser and the impacts it could have. 

What Is the Together for Palestine Fundraiser?

The Together for Palestine fundraiser aims to raise £2 million (approximately $2.7 million) for aid in Gaza and it has raised £1.8 million (about $2.4 million) so far. Together for Palestine’s big event was the aforementioned concert in Wembley Arena. According to the BBC, more than 12,000 people attended the event and an additional 200,000 people streamed it.

The event featured British artist Brian Eno, who organized it and prominent figures such as Benedict Cumberbatch and Florence Pugh, musicians Bastille and James Blake and Palestinian artists Sama’ Abdulhadi, Saint Levant and actor Bilal Ali Hasna. Hasna stated that he believes what Israel is doing in Gaza could be classified as genocide, a stance Israel’s foreign ministry has vehemently rejected.

It’s worth noting, however, that his position aligns with a U.N. report released the same week as the Wembley fundraiser, underscoring the urgency of drawing attention to the horrific conditions in Gaza.

What Are the Impacts of the Together for Palestine Fundraiser?

The Together for Palestine Fundraiser is donating all its proceeds to organizations on the ground and providing aid in Gaza. According to the Together for Palestine website, the organizations involved include:

• Taawon: This is the largest orphan care program in Gaza, supporting more than 20,000 children who have lost everything as a result of the conflict. It provides food, clothing and medical care.
• The Palestine Children’s Relief Fund: It delivers medical care and clean water and assists with evacuations.
• The Palestinian Medical Relief Society: It provides health care in Gaza and the West Bank to more than two million people.

These three organizations provide vital services in Gaza. With the donations from the Together for Palestine fundraiser, they can expand their reach and continue delivering high-quality care to those who need it most.

Conclusion

The Israel–Palestine conflict is one of the defining crises of our time. The Together for Palestine fundraiser is a major campaign to raise money for those carrying out essential work in a region desperately needing support.

– Charlie Means

Charlie is based in Denver, CO, USA and focuses on Celebs and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay