The ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to escalate, with Israeli National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi warning that the war against Hamas will persist at least until the end of 2024. Despite global pressure, the military offensive in Rafah, Gaza, shows no signs of abating, raising concerns about the future governance of the Palestinian territory post-war.
Hanegbi, in a radio interview, underscored the determination of Israel's war cabinet to 'destroy the military and government capabilities of Hamas and Islamic Jihad.' This strategy involves continuing the offensive even as Israeli forces now control significant portions of the Philadelphia Corridor, a critical buffer zone along the Gaza-Egypt border. The Israeli military's targeted airstrikes in Rafah, which have resulted in substantial civilian casualties, have drawn widespread international condemnation, with the death toll exceeding 36,000 in Gaza as reported by Palestinian officials.
Videos from the aftermath of the latest airstrikes, which targeted a displaced persons camp in Rafah, depict harrowing scenes of devastation, further fueling global outrage. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ordered Israel to halt its military actions in Rafah, citing the deteriorating humanitarian conditions as 'disastrous.' Nevertheless, Israel remains steadfast, partially supported by allies like the United States which has yet to change its military aid policy despite escalating violence.
The humanitarian impact is catastrophic. The last operational hospital in Rafah is teetering on the brink of closure due to the relentless bombardment, as highlighted by a senior World Health Organization (WHO) official. The international community, including leaders from the EU and countries like France and Belgium, have condemned the attacks vehemently, calling for an immediate ceasefire and adherence to international law.
Public sentiment in various countries is shifting, with numerous demonstrations and calls for the recognition of the Palestinian state. In France, for example, the High School Union (USL) has called for a blockade of educational institutions in protest. Political figures in Israel, including Hanegbi, have criticized countries like Spain and Ireland for their stance, labeling them as 'hostile' for recognizing Palestinian statehood.
The conflict has not only strained Israel's diplomatic relations but has also led to incidents of violence along its borders, including a fatal exchange of fire with Egyptian forces near Rafah. Amidst this turmoil, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that efforts to avoid civilian casualties are in place, though the resultant fatalities and international backlash suggest otherwise.
- International reactions have varied. The UAE has condemned the attacks and emphasized the need to abide by the ICJ ruling. Within the European Union, Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as horrifying, particularly lamenting the deaths of young children due to the bombings.
- Israel continues to justify its actions as necessary to combat Hamas, despite the growing number of casualties and criticism. Netanyahu's narrative is that the bombings are targeted against Hamas leaders, and any civilian deaths are unfortunate collateral damage. His government is under intense scrutiny both domestically and internationally as the war's impact on global diplomacy intensifies.
