Welcome to the 2024 edition of Egyptian Chronicles' Movers and Shakers!
It’s that time of year again for our annual post.
Here is my list of those I believe to be the movers and shakers of 2024 in Egypt, the Arab world, and beyond.
This is not a list of the "top" individuals but rather those who left an impact for better or worse. The good, the bad, and the ugly all make an appearance. The naughty and the goody-goody are here too.
I didn’t publish the 2023 edition due to the war in Gaza—a decision I now regret.
But now, let’s dive into my top picks for the Movers and Shakers of 2024.
Regional shakers and movers
- The Palestinian people in Gaza:
Does this need any explanation? The most resilient people in the world are facing genocide while steadfastly refusing to leave their land. Many are unaware that Palestinians could storm the Egyptian border and seek refuge in Sinai under international law, which obligates Egypt to receive them. Yet, the Palestinians of Gaza choose to remain because they know Gaza is their last frontier.
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Palestinian man Ismail Al-Khlout reads the Quran as he waits to break his fast in Ramadan "March" while sitting on the rubble of his house. Mahmoud Isssa for Reuters |
The people of Gaza understand that crossing the border means never returning. Israeli plans to recolonize Gaza are not a secret; Israeli officials openly discuss them. Their relentless efforts to make Gaza uninhabitable are underway, but the Palestinian people of Gaza remain their greatest obstacle. They are the true resistance, keeping the hope of Palestine alive. Yet, one cannot help but wonder how much longer they can endure this ongoing genocide.
Some countless faces and names embody the resilience and spirit of the Palestinian people in Gaza. Among them is Hajj Khaled Nabhan, who became an icon of perseverance after losing his beloved granddaughter Reem in October 2023. Despite his grief, he continued to care for his elderly mother and support the injured and displaced in Gaza. Tragically, Hajj Nabhan was killed in November.
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Khaled Nabhan and his granddaughter Reem are now together |
Others, like food blogger-turned-chef Hamada Shaqoura and Mrs. Shahinaz, inspire hope through their efforts amidst the destruction. They remind us of the enduring humanity and strength of Gaza’s people.
As of October 7, 2023, the ongoing Israeli war has claimed the lives of 45,658 individuals and left 108,583 injured. Additionally, 80% of the Gaza Strip is now under Israeli evacuation orders, further compounding the humanitarian crisis.