Gaza conflict resumes under Israeli management, questions surrounding timing arise.
Why the Recent Escalation in Conflict Between Israel and Hamas?
So much for that brief peace, eh? The recent escalation between Israel and Hamas, two frenemies making the best of the ceasefire, couldn't hold for long. Israel's bombardment of Gaza last night couldn't be more clear: they're back for more. But why now? Let's dive into it.
Why the Return to War?
The Israeli government has been offering differing explanations, but the core reason appears to be the same as their October 7, 2023, attacks on Gaza: the seized hostages and the goal of crippling Hamas' governing and military structures.
On one hand, Israel's defense minister, Israel Katz, claimed it was due to Hamas's unwillingness to free the hostages and its threats to endanger IDF soldiers and Israeli communities. On the other hand, Israel's foreign ministry spokesperson cited Hamas' rejection of two American-mediated proposals presented by Steve Witkoff, President Biden's envoy.
The Politics Behind the Conflict
Domestic Israeli politics are a significant factor. The far-right in Israel has been discontent with the Gaza truce, viewing it as a surrender to Hamas. They desire the expulsion of all Palestinians and Israel's reinstatement of settlements dismantled in 2005. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu need this voting bloc to maintain control.
The Failed Ceasefire Talks
The ceasefire, effective from January 19, targeted four phases, but deadlocks have hindered implementation. Originally, Israel agreed to withdraw completely from Gaza, ending the war, and committing to hostage releases in exchange for Hamas releasing all living hostages under the second phase. However, Israel now demands further negotiations that don't commit to ending the war or withdrawing military forces.
Discussions for the second phase were expected to begin on February 3, but Israel ignored that deadline. In an unexpected move, the US has recently started direct talks with Hamas, which it considers a terrorist organization.
Is the War In Full Swing Again?
Israel's military has remained tight-lipped about the intensity of the operation, but it has ordered Palestinians in large areas of Gaza to evacuate their homes, fueling rumors of a possible ground invasion and occupation of urban centers. As of the current standoff, Israel is unwilling to halt its aggressive military offensive without securing additional hostage releases.
The Impact on Gaza's Civilians
The recent bombardment has already claimed an appalling number of lives, making it the deadliest day in Gaza since November 7, 2023. Israel has also been withholding humanitarian aid to Gaza, exacerbating the suffering of its residents.
As Ahmad Al Shaafi in Deir el Balah recounted to CNN, the bombardment around 2 am was a harrowing experience. "Only God is merciful. There are still two children under the rubble—one sixteen years old and the other five. We cannot retrieve them," he shared.
Israel has been criticized for the high civilian casualties in Gaza since the October 7, 2023, attack, with the health ministry confirming that the majority of the casualties have been civilians.
The Fate of the Hostages
Regrettably, the renewed conflict has been a significant setback for the hostages' families, who still await the return of their loved ones. 24 hostages are believed to be alive at present, and their families are overwhelmingly disappointed by Israel's apparent abandonment of efforts to secure their release.
The Role of the United States
The US has been consulting with Israel on their attacks in Gaza, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. While the Biden administration was instrumental in pushing Netanyahu to accept the initial ceasefire agreement, President Trump had expressed his support for a return to war if Israel chose to do so.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, sparking worldwide concern, is not only impacting the Middle East, but also the world due to its potential ramifications. The recent phased ceasefire talks, brokered by Steve Witkoff, President Biden's envoy, have been met with resistance, with Israel rejecting the proposed terms that included a complete withdrawal and hostage releases. The war, once again in full swing, has tragically resulted in high civilian casualties in Gaza, straining relationships between nations and increasing calls for stability in the region.
