As the war between Ukraine and Russia continues. Another one ensues as Hamas conducted an unprecedented attack on Israel via land air and sea, killing hundreds and capturing even more prisoners. While it is disheartening news, we can only wish for the violence to stop and ceasefire to happen immediately.
It is important to understand how this escalated to this point. But would it even be possible given the complexity and history of this warring nations? The conflict between Israel and Palestine has been going on for decades. It is a complex and long-standing dispute rooted in historical, political, religious, and territorial factors. This conflict has evolved over many decades, and there are varying perspectives on its causes and solutions.
The Gaza strip has been a hotspot for tension and conflict. On the inside, Gaza is governed by the Palestinian political faction Hamas, which is considered a terrorist organization by Israel, the United States, and the European Union. This political divide, with Hamas controlling Gaza and the Palestinian Authority controlling the West Bank, creates political tensions and rivalries. While on the borders, Israel has imposed a strict land, air, and sea blockade since 2007, following Hamas's takeover. This blockade severely restricts the movement of people and goods in and out of Gaza, leading to economic hardship, unemployment, and humanitarian crises.
Israelis woke on the last day of the Jewish high holidays to the blast of sirens as Hamas and Islamic Jihad fired thousands of rockets from Gaza and armed militants infiltrated barriers surrounding the strip to enter Israel, shooting and taking hostages. Militants in boats also tried to enter Israel by sea.
Israel's Iron Dome missile defense system may have saved the lives of thousands after destroying a nighttime assault by Hamas rockets. The Iron Dome is a missile defense system developed by Israel to intercept and destroy short-range rockets and artillery shells fired at Israeli communities from neighboring territories, primarily from Gaza and southern Lebanon. It is designed to provide protection against threats that could cause harm to civilian populations and infrastructure.
Almost immediately prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared war against Hamas. They vow to take extreme military action and regain all invaded territory. And a promise to destroy Hamas. He issued a stern warning to escape from Gaza. An ominous sign of worse things to come as he might flatten the city from bombardments. Electricity has also been cutoff from the region.
The United States president Joe Biden already issued a statement declaring full support to the Israel government which could mean a more massive supply of weapons and ammunition. The US also said that like Hezbollah, Hamas gets it funding and support from Iran.
At this present stage, it is still a developing story. Peace seems to be out of reach for now. However i believe that there is still hope. Like having a 2 state solution to resolve territorial disputes. While it has been suggested plenty of times. There needs to be an aggressive push for peace. Continuous dialogues, implementation of ceasefire. A combined effort as well as long term commitments are a must in order for peace to be secured.
Sources:
Wikipedia and CNN and CBSNEWS
