The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas has sparked a new cycle of escalating violence in the already unstable region, which is characterized by an unexpected multi-pronged attack coming from the Gaza Strip. This attack, which included aerial, naval, and ground operations, was planned by the Hamas. Israel quickly retaliated forcefully, resulting in a deadly bombardment of the blockaded coastal enclave. This most recent outbreak of hostilities highlights how long-lasting and unresolvable the ongoing conflict has been, with a tragically high death toll, the indoctrination of succeeding generations under occupation, and the enduring threat of rocket barrages and bombings. The possibility of a ground invasion by Israel raises the stakes and poses risks to both the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and any Israeli hostages who may be held inside the region.
However, diverse perspectives become apparent in the global discourse. Some have claimed that Israel’s military and intelligence apparatus utterly failed to counter Hamas’ offensive. While simultaneously reiterating Israel’s inherent “right to self-defense,” diplomats and political figures, primarily from Western countries and elsewhere, have characterized it as a “unprovoked” and “terrorist” act. World leaders have been shocked and alarmed by the audacity, scope, and complexity of Hamas’s attacks, which have reverberated across the international stage.
According to international law, states are not allowed to engage in any kind of military occupation, no matter how long it lasts. Further affirming the right to use “all available means, including armed struggle,” United Nations General Assembly Resolution 37/43 states that populations seeking independence and emancipation from colonial subjugation are entitled to do so. In light of the ongoing Israeli occupation and colonialism in Palestine, Operation Al-Aqsa Flood must be seen as a manifestation of the armed Palestinian resistance. In fact, the continuation of the occupation and the continued denial of Palestinian rights has led to the exact explosion about which there was forewarning. Those who claim that the attack was unprovoked fundamentally misunderstand the dynamics at play; in reality, this is a response to the systemic and deliberate intimidation that the current Israeli government practices, wherein provocations exacerbate existing wounds.
Meanwhile, the current priority is to step up global efforts. The international community must move quickly to activate a credible peace plan that is conducive to a two-state solution, as stated in the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ statement. This strategy is crucial for protecting civilian lives. Saudi Arabia and other steadfast supporters can claim a legacy of unwavering commitment to this pursuit spanning decades, even though it may involve formidable challenges. Similarly, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and the Abraham Accords signatories, namely the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain, find themselves in charge of the crucial task of de-escalation. They would have to put pressure on their developing diplomatic relations with Israel if the current hostilities were to continue. There have been comparisons drawn between the recent events’ profound effect on the Israeli population and the resonant shockwaves the 9/11 attacks sent through the American psyche. It is crucial to recognize the particulars of this crisis, though. The majority of recent violence has been experienced by both Israelis and Palestinians, but the current situation stands out due to a systemic breakdown in Israel’s security system.
Therefore, the truth is that this story was a sophisticated ruse all along. Similar to how the American public felt after the 9/11 attacks, the recent turn of events has left the Israeli population in a state of profound disbelief. How is it conceivable that a dispersed group of militants could pull off such a feat is a question that permeates the collective consciousness. How were they able to outwit the tenacious Israeli Defense Forces and the Israeli intelligence apparatus? While concrete solutions are still elusive, hubris seems to be a factor—an overestimation of the power of sheer military might in dissuading Hamas, coupled with a disregard for addressing the underlying, long-term problems plaguing the region.
Although, due to their sophisticated espionage capabilities, the Palestinian entities have a strong ability to be discerned in minute detail, which has been the foundation of Israel’s traditional mode of operation. The Gaza-Israel border was marked by an imposing physical barrier that was built at great expense, giving Israel’s leadership assurance that Hamas would be discouraged from launching a significant offensive. This confidence resulted from a conviction that the terrible repercussions of such actions would persuade Palestinians to rebel against Hamas. It was thought that Hamas had shifted its attention to a protracted ceasefire and a beneficial “live and let live” agreement.
