Simon Hayter

Gaza

Since 1967, thousands of people have died for a small strip of land sandwiched between Israel and the Mediterranean Sea. Throughout the world the name Gaza has become synonymous with conflict. Violence is a daily reality for Palestinians and Israelis, and even in quiet times the region lives with the constant threat of total war.

In 2005 Gaza is on the eve of a new era. Israel's disengagement from it's settlements there is what some believe to be the last chance for a two state solution and a real sustainable peace. The end is not written in this never-ending saga of politics, religion and war.

Islamic Jehad militants rally after Friday prayer in the Rafah refugee camp in the Gaza Strip.
  
The notorious "Block O" in Rafah.
  
Young Palestinian men gather in the town market.
     
  
The Western Wall in Jerusalem is one of Judaism's holiest sites.
  
An injured settler carresses a kitten.
  
Bullet holes.
     
  
Israeli troops secure all roads leading to the largest settlement of Gush Qatif prior to the withdrawal.
  
A youth from Khan Younis enjoys the beach of Gaza City, a rare occurance due to travel restrictions in the Gaza.
  
An Israeli boy sings to settlers leaving Gush Qatif as the gate closes behind them.
     
  
Palestinian men cheer their home club during an inter-city football match.
  
Boys play among the ruins of the Rafah refugee camp.
  
Boys play among the ruins of the Rafah refugee camp.
     
  
A Hamas militant patrols the streets.
  
A young Palestinian boy marks his target as Israeli bulldozers work along the Egyptian border.
  
Young boys emulate their militant heroes at a rally in Rafah.
     
  
Palestinian youth gather around a bonfire in the Rafah refugee camp.