Escalating Israel-Hamas conflict enters 4th Day with no signs of abatement

New Delhi, Oct 10: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has reached a critical juncture, with both sides continuing to engage in intense military operations and escalating rhetoric.

As Israeli citizens and reservist forces are deployed to the forward borders with Gaza, the world watches closely, uncertain of Israel’s next move. While the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) claim to be targeting Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the situation on the ground remains highly volatile.

The Siege of Gaza

Israel has imposed a tight siege on the Gaza Strip, effectively isolating the territory from the rest of the world. Nothing can enter Gaza without Israeli permission, and even the Egyptian Rafah crossing, the only lifeline for those who were listed before the recent fighting, offers limited relief. Palestinians are required to seek approval from the interior minister at least two days in advance to cross into Egypt, further exacerbating the already dire situation.

Potential for a Ground Operation

From a military perspective, Israel is all set launching a ground operation into Gaza to eliminate most of Hamas’s commanders. However, this could also result in the radicalization of a new generation of fighters, as Hamas remains determined to defend Palestinian land and continues to fire rockets into Israel. The death toll has been steadily rising, with Israel claiming to have found over 1,500 Hamas operatives after its recent offensive near the Gaza border.

Threats and Vows

In response to Israeli airstrikes, Hamas has threatened to execute hostages, further escalating tensions. Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has vowed to reduce Hamas-controlled areas to rubble, raising concerns from the United Nations and other humanitarian organisations. Netanyahu asserts that Israel did not initiate this conflict but is committed to finishing it.

Hostage Crisis

Hamas has taken hostages, including elders, women, and children, and refuses to negotiate their release until the fighting ends. The situation is dire, with at least 100 to 150 people reportedly held captive by the group. This hostage crisis adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.

International Appeals

Amid the crisis, the World Health Organization, along with other United Nations agencies and aid organizations, has called for a humanitarian corridor to be established in Gaza. Israel’s decision to cut off essential supplies, such as fuel, electricity, and water, has pushed the region to the brink. Approximately 60% of Gaza’s population depends on aid organizations for survival, and unemployment stands at around 50%. The UN’s human rights chief, Volker Türk, condemns the Hamas attacks but asserts that Israel’s siege is illegal under international law.

Displacement Crisis

The United Nations reports that nearly 200,000 people, or nearly a tenth of Gaza’s population, have been displaced since the hostilities began. Most displaced individuals are taking shelter in schools, and further displacement is expected as clashes persist. Gaza is poised to face shortages of water and electricity due to the blockade, adding to the humanitarian crisis.

Prime Minister Modi received a call from the Prime Minister of Israel

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, thanked his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu for updating him on the ongoing situation in his country.  Condemning terrorism in all its forms, the Prime Minister expressed solidarity with Israel at this difficult time. 

The Prime Minister posted on X: “I thank Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his phone call and providing an update on the ongoing situation. The people of India stand firmly with Israel in this difficult hour. India strongly and unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”

Saudi Arabia’s Stance

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman has affirmed his country’s support for the Palestinian people’s rights to a decent life, peace, and aspirations. He also expressed his commitment to work with international and regional parties to prevent further escalation of the conflict. This support is significant, given the ongoing normalization talks between Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the United States, which have been negatively impacted by the recent violence.

Conclusion

The Israel-Hamas conflict has reached a critical stage, with no clear resolution in sight. As both sides continue their military operations and threats, the situation in the Gaza Strip deteriorates rapidly. International appeals for a humanitarian corridor highlight the urgent need for assistance in Gaza, where displacement and shortages of essential resources have created a dire humanitarian crisis. The conflict’s impact on regional diplomacy, especially the normalization talks involving Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the United States, underscores the broader implications of this ongoing crisis. As the world watches, the hope for a peaceful resolution becomes increasingly uncertain, raising concerns about the long-term consequences of this conflict.