Here in the West Bank, Palestinians are expecting awful reprisals. Such is the cycle of adversity | Fatima AbdulKarim

The images from the Hamas attack are an affront to humanity. But we mustn't forget the traumatic history shaping events

• Fatima AbdulKarim is a journalist based in Ramallah

The horrific footage from Gaza over the past two days cannot help but shock, but it also prompts stark confrontation with the grim reality that has plagued Palestine for decades. Images of the torment and brutal killings of hundreds of Israeli civilians bring back memories of the violence and humiliation suffered by Palestinians, including children, women, elderly and disabled people, over many years. The images of assaults on hostages also recollect painful past events: they are an undeniable affront to humanity. Attacking civilians, irrespective of the side perpetrating the violence, lacks any semblance of honour.

In the first days of fighting, the toll of human life has been devastating on both sides, with over 1,500 people killed. At least 900 Israelis have lost their lives, with thousands more injured. It's a tragedy of awful proportions.

Fatima AbdulKarim is a journalist based in Ramallah