Nairobi: Activists have launched a digital campaign under the hashtag 'They Lied to You' in an effort to refocus global attention on the ongoing suffering in the Gaza Strip. They argue that the reduced international media coverage does not signify an end to the genocidal war or the ceaseless suffering of its residents.
According to Anadolu Agency, the campaign, which began on July 16, is available in both Arabic and English and includes participation from journalists, humanitarian workers, children from Gaza, and supporters from both Arab and foreign communities. Through video clips and written posts, activists are highlighting the continued killing of Palestinians by Israel and the various forms of suffering, including starvation, displacement, and disease.
The campaign aims to counter the widespread belief that the ceasefire, in effect since October 10, 2025, has halted the war and the humanitarian crisis. The timing of the campaign coincides with an escalation in Israeli attacks on Gaza, which have resulted in numerous casualties, including women and children, through bombardments and assassination operations.
The ceasefire's promises, such as reopening crossings and allowing the entry of necessary food, relief, and medical aid, remain unfulfilled by Israel, exacerbating the dire humanitarian conditions. Activists are calling for global action to preserve what remains of Gaza, as Israel has expanded its occupation to 70% of the territory, surpassing the agreed 53% in the ceasefire.
Civil Defense spokesperson Mahmoud Basal, participating in the campaign, emphasized, "They lied to you when they said there was a ceasefire in Gaza. What kind of ceasefire is this when children are still being killed, homes are being bombed, tents are being targeted, and families are grieving every day?" He further stressed the need for a genuine ceasefire, where "the killing stops, the bombardment falls silent, children sleep without fear, and people return to their lives."
Under the same hashtag, a video staged by an activist has garnered significant attention. In it, the activist, appearing to be silenced with black tape, reveals the message 'They Lied to You,' challenging the notion that the war has ended. Palestinian activist Osaid al-Kahlout shared a video underscoring the ongoing reality in Gaza, stating, "The story is not over. Gaza is not a number in a news bulletin, and its people are not a passing headline."
Various international supporters have echoed these sentiments. Moroccan writer Hassan Bennajeh urged continued support for Gaza, stating, "'They Lied to You' is a campaign hashtag challenging the claim that the war on Gaza has ended." Other activists from Yemen, Pakistan, and Europe have also spoken out against the alleged ceasefire.
According to the latest figures from the Gaza Health Ministry, Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement have resulted in 1,127 Palestinian deaths and 3,643 injuries as of Thursday. The ceasefire followed a two-year genocidal war initiated by Israel on October 8, 2023, with US support, which caused over 73,000 deaths, 173,000 injuries, and widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure.