In recent events, hundreds of Hamas terrorists from Gaza rampaged through border towns in a surprise assault against Israel. The escalating conflict has brought attention to the longstanding grievances and underlying issues that have shaped their intricate relationship. Understanding the root causes and current events is critical in comprehending the multifaceted nature of this ongoing dispute.
What happened?
On October 7th 2023, surprised citizens in Israel awoke on the final day of the Jewish holidays to the blare of sirens, as troops from Hamas launched a barrage of rockets in the country. The insurgents who crossed into Israel by land, sea and air managed to infiltrate 22 Israeli towns and army bases, shooting people, and taking hostages resulting in the loss of both civilian and military lives. Several unverified footage showed terrified Israelis, drenched in blood, with their hands bound behind their backs, being escorted by Palestinian
assailants. The assault by Hamas was a stunning and unparalleled event, and in response, the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, announced that the nation was engaged in a state of war and vowed that Palestinians would pay a heavy price.
Why did Hamas launch the attack?
According to reports, Muhammad Deif, the leader of the military wing of Hamas, revealed in a recorded message that the group had decided to launch an “operation” so that “the enemy will understand that the time of their rampaging without accountability has ended.” He further cited Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, multiple Israeli military incursions into Palestinian
cities, and the detention of thousands of Palestinians in Israeli jails as additional reasons for the attack. The broader context involves a 16-year blockade of Gaza by Israel and Egypt, severely crippling the strip’s internal economy and causing substantial hardship for its residents. How did Israel respond?
Israel activated army reserves and b launched a series of airstrikes on the small enclave, home to 2.3 million people. Netanyahu warned Palestinians in Gaza to m evacuate immediately, promising to completely dismantle Hamas hideouts. Fighter jets targeted several buildings in the heart of Gaza City, including the Palestine tower, housing various Hamas radio stations. Israel has suggested the potential for a ground invasion, despite the significant risks for both Israeli troops and hostages currently held in the area.
As part of the attack, Israel has cut off electricity and fuel supplies to Gaza, posing a potential danger to the enclave’s medical facilities, which are already m overwhelmed with casualties from the ongoing bombardment.
What has been the international reaction to the Conflict?
There has been a widespread condemnation of Hamas and a strong backing of Israel’s right to self-defense. Joe Biden assured Israel that the US stands firmly with the Israeli people, and that his administration remains firmly committed to ensuring Israel’s security. The UN
Security Council convened an urgent session to address the ongoing crisis, and dispatched peacekeeping troops to the Lebanon-Israel border to safeguard stability and prevent any escalation. Similarly, the Egyptian government stated it was engaged in discussions with Saudi Arabia and Jordan to seek a resolution to the crisis.
The unfolding events in Israel and Gaza signals the inauguration of a fresh phase in the Middle East conflict. The current dire repercussions and extensive casualties already depict a devastating picture, and the recent assault, along with the ensuing warfare, is poised to significantly influence global politics in the foreseeable future.
What do you think would be the most likely outcome from this Conflict?
Please share your opinions in the comment section below, and don’t forget to share. 😊
May God take absolute control
Tope adegbola