Marking history, as we all delved into the heart-wrenching Israel-Palestine conflict, with a particular emphasis on the relentless battle between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. As I delved into this topic, I was deeply moved by the abundance of information detailing the tumultuous history of Gaza, marked by a century of strife and the devastating loss of life that has occurred over the years. The suffering and pain endured by the people on both sides of the conflict are truly heartbreaking. It's impossible not to feel sympathy for those caught in the midst of such a protracted and tragic situation.

Yet, amidst the profound sympathy that gripped me, there was also a burning anger that surged within. Anger at the continued violence and the senseless loss of innocent lives that this conflict has spawned over the years. It's a frustration born out of the knowledge that a conflict with such a profound human toll persists, seemingly without end.

In this sea of emotions, I found a glimmer of hope, an ember of determination. I realized that I could use this platform to shed light on the suffering and to encourage change. I could be a voice for peace, a force for reconciliation, and a beacon of understanding. While anger at the injustices endured by the people in this conflict still lingers, it's accompanied by a fervent hope for a better future, where dialogue and compassion might finally prevail over violence and division.

In this world where empathy and indignation converge, I strive to make a difference, to raise awareness, and to be part of the solution, for a world where peace and justice might one day replace the anguish and anger that have plagued the Israel-Palestine conflict for far too long.

ISRAEL-PALESTINE

BACKGROUND

Key Terminology used:

Israel is a country located in the Middle East, on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It was established in 1948 and is recognized by the United Nations. Israel has a parliamentary democracy and is a homeland for Jewish people, among other religious and ethnic groups. Its capital city is Jerusalem.

Palestine refers to a region in the Middle East that has historical and cultural significance for various peoples, including Palestinians, Jews, and others. The term "Palestine" is often used to describe the geographic area between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict centers around this region, with Palestinians seeking self-determination and statehood. While some countries and entities recognize the State of Palestine, its political status remains a subject of dispute.

Hamas is a Palestinian political and military organization. It was founded in 1987 during the First Intifada against Israeli rule in the Palestinian territories. Hamas is considered a terrorist organization by several countries and organizations, including the United States, the European Union, and Israel. It has been involved in numerous conflicts with Israel and is known for its militant activities, including suicide bombings and rocket attacks. Hamas also has a political wing and has governed the Gaza Strip since 2007, after winning Palestinian legislative elections. The group's stated goal is to establish an Islamic state in historic Palestine, which includes present-day Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza Strip.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

Roots of the Conflict

The story of Palestine begins in the annals of time, where various civilizations have left their mark on its sacred soil. Canaanites, Hebrews, Philistines, and Arabs have all called this land home. It is a place where cultures intertwined and histories overlapped, shaping the unique character of the region.

British Mandate (1917-1947): Seeds of Conflict and Ambiguity

During the years from 1917 to 1947, Palestine was placed under British Mandate by the League of Nations. The British Mandate incorporated the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which expressed support for the establishment of a Jewish national home in Palestine. Arab demands for independence and resistance to immigration resulted in a rebellion in 1937, followed by ongoing violence. In 1947, the issue of Palestine was handed over to the UN.

Creation of Israel (1948): A Nation's Birth Amidst Conflict

The declaration of the State of Israel in 1948 marked a significant turning point, bringing the neighboring Arab states into the fray. This conflict led to the expansion of Israel's territory and the displacement of a significant number of Palestinian Arabs, setting the stage for the ongoing saga.

The Crucial Turning Point: The 1967 War

The 1967 war stands out as a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict. Its aftermath left Israel in control of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, regions inhabited by sizable Palestinian populations. Presently, the West Bank nominally falls under the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority but remains under Israeli occupation, marked by the presence of Israeli troops enforcing security measures that restrict Palestinian movement and activities. Additionally, Israeli settlers have established communities in the West Bank, further complicating the situation. Gaza, in contrast, is governed by Hamas, an Islamist fundamentalist party, and is subject to an Israeli blockade but is not occupied by ground troops.

Lebanon, ICQP, and Intifada (1977 – 1990)

In June 1982, Israel invaded Lebanon with the aim of eliminating the PLO. A cease-fire was arranged, and PLO forces withdrew from Beirut. In September 1983, the International Conference on the Question of Palestine (ICQP) adopted principles that included opposition to Israeli settlements and actions in Jerusalem and the right of all states in the region to exist within secure and internationally recognized boundaries. In 1987, a mass uprising known as the intifada against Israeli occupation began. This period also witnessed the proclamation of the State of Palestine in 1988.

Peace Process of the 1990s

In 1991, a Peace Conference was held in Madrid, aiming to achieve a peaceful settlement through direct negotiations between Israel and the Arab States and between Israel and the Palestinians, based on Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973). Subsequent negotiations led to mutual recognition between Israel and the PLO, culminating in the 1993 Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements (Oslo Accord). The UN played a crucial role as the guardian of international legitimacy and in providing international assistance. Permanent status negotiations held in 2000 and 2001 at Camp David and Taba did not lead to a conclusive agreement.

Recent Developments (2000 - Present)

From 2000 onwards, there were significant developments, including the Second Intifada, the construction of a separation wall in the West Bank, Security Council affirmation of a vision of two states, and the Arab Peace Initiative. In 2005, Israel withdrew its settlers and troops from Gaza while maintaining control over its borders. Following the 2006 Palestinian legislative elections, the Quartet conditioned assistance to the PA on its commitment to nonviolence, recognition of Israel, and acceptance of previous agreements. The years from 2007 to 2022 witnessed various rounds of violence and negotiations, the recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel by the US, and the mediation of agreements to normalize relations between Israel and several Arab countries. In 2022, the UN General Assembly requested an Advisory Opinion from the ICJ regarding the legality of the prolonged Israeli occupation since 1967 and its implications for Member States. The year 2023 began with another round of fighting between Israel and Hamas and marked the 75th anniversary of the Nakba, commemorated by the UN. In October 2023, another escalation between Gaza and Israel started.

The summarized main points of contention include:

• Territorial Dispute: At the heart of the conflict is a dispute over land and borders. Both Israelis and Palestinians claim historical and religious ties to the same region, particularly in areas such as Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. The question of borders and the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel are central issues.
• Status of Jerusalem: Jerusalem is a city of great religious and political significance for both Israelis and Palestinians. Israel claims Jerusalem as its undivided capital, while Palestinians seek East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state. The status of Jerusalem remains a contentious issue.
• Refugee Issue: Many Palestinians, and their descendants, who were displaced during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War (known as the Nakba) and the 1967 Six-Day War, have sought the right of return to their ancestral homes. This issue is a significant point of contention.
• Security Concerns: Israel has expressed concerns about its security and has imposed restrictions, such as blockades and checkpoints, on Palestinian territories to prevent attacks and protect its citizens. Palestinians argue that these measures amount to occupation and are detrimental to their daily lives.
• Hamas: Hamas, as mentioned earlier, is a Palestinian organization that controls the Gaza Strip and has a more militant stance than the Palestinian Authority, which controls parts of the West Bank. Israel views Hamas as a terrorist organization and has engaged in conflicts with it. The role of Hamas in Palestinian politics and the question of its disarmament are additional points of contention.

WHY GAZA IS TARGETED?

Gaza's 75 Years of Suffering

Gaza, a coastal territory with a rich history along the Mediterranean, has witnessed significant shifts in governance during the past century. It transitioned from Ottoman rule to British administration, then to Egyptian control, and finally to Israeli military authority. Today, it stands as a fenced-in enclave inhabited by over 2 million Palestinians.

1948 - The End of British Rule

As British colonial rule in Palestine drew to a close in the late 1940s, violent conflicts escalated between Jewish and Arab communities, culminating in the war that led to the establishment of the State of Israel in May 1948. Tens of thousands of Palestinians sought refuge in Gaza, causing its population to triple.

1950s & 1960s - Egyptian Military Governance

For two decades, Egypt governed the Gaza Strip under military rule. This period saw Palestinian refugees allowed to work and study in Egypt. Palestinian "fedayeen," many of whom were refugees, conducted attacks into Israel, triggering reprisals. The United Nations established UNRWA, a refugee agency providing services to Palestine refugees in Gaza and other regions.

1967 - War and Israeli Occupation

In the 1967 Middle East war, Israel captured Gaza. At that time, Gaza's population was approximately 394,000, with a majority being refugees. As the Egyptians withdrew, many Gazan workers found employment in Israel's agriculture, construction, and services sectors. Israeli troops remained in Gaza, leading to growing Palestinian resentment.

1987 - First Palestinian Uprising, Emergence of Hamas

Twenty years after the 1967 war, the first intifada (uprising) began in December 1987. This was catalyzed by a traffic accident involving Israeli and Palestinian vehicles in Gaza's Jabalya refugee camp. The Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt formed an armed Palestinian branch, Hamas, dedicated to Israel's destruction. This marked the rise of a rival to Yasser Arafat's secular Fatah party.

1993 - Oslo Accords and Palestinian Autonomy

The historic 1993 peace accord between Israel and Palestinians resulted in the creation of the Palestinian Authority. Gaza was one of the areas granted limited Palestinian control. The Oslo process aimed for statehood within five years, but this did not materialize. Hamas and Islamic Jihad carried out bombings to obstruct the peace process.

2000 - Second Palestinian Intifada

Israeli-Palestinian relations deteriorated further in 2000 with the outbreak of the second intifada. This period saw suicide bombings, shootings, Israeli air strikes, and significant restrictions on movement, affecting Gaza's airport and fishing industry.

2005 - Israeli Evacuation of Gaza Settlements

In August 2005, Israel withdrew its troops and settlers from Gaza, leading to greater freedom of movement within the territory. However, it also disrupted the economy. Gaza's isolation deepened under Hamas control in 2006, leading to restricted access, blackouts, and economic challenges.

2023 - Recent Conflict

In 2023, Gaza witnessed a significant escalation in violence. Despite efforts to maintain stability, Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel, leading to devastating consequences and renewed conflict in the region.

2023 Hamas Assault on Israel

7th October, 2023

On the 7th of October 2023, at approximately 6:30 a.m. Israel Summer Time (UTC+3), Hamas initiated the war what they termed "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood." 

During this operation, they fired more than 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel within a mere 20-minute period. 

Israeli sources reported over 3,000 projectiles launched from Gaza during this attack, resulting in the tragic loss of at least five lives due to rocket strikes. The rocket explosions were widespread, affecting areas around the Gaza Strip and reaching cities in the Sharon Plain such as Gedera, Herzliyya, Tel Aviv, and Ashkelon. Air raid sirens were triggered in various locations, including Beer Sheva, Jerusalem, Rehovot, Rishon Lezion, and Palmachim Airbase. 

In response to these events, Hamas issued a call to arms, with Commander Mohammad Deif urging "Muslims everywhere to launch an attack" and to "eliminate the enemy wherever they may be found."

The violence extended to clashes between Palestinian militants and the Israel Defense Forces along the Gaza perimeter fence, as well as attacks on Israeli boats. 

In the evening, Hamas launched another barrage of 150 rockets towards Israel, leading to further explosions in places like Yavne, Givatayim, Bat Yam, Beit Dagan, Tel Aviv, and Rishon Lezion.

Simultaneously, around 2,500 Hamas militants infiltrated Israel from Gaza using various means, including trucks, pickup trucks, motorcycles, bulldozers, speedboats, and paragliders. They managed to take control of checkpoints at Kerem Shalom and Erez while creating openings in the border fence at five other locations. Initial reports included images and videos of heavily armed and masked militants dressed in black fatigues riding pickup trucks, as well as instances of them opening fire in Sderot, resulting in the tragic deaths of numerous Israeli civilians and soldiers. Additional videos seemed to depict Israelis being taken as prisoners, a burning Israeli tank, and militants driving Israeli military vehicles.

Death rates:

They targeted various communities, including Nir Oz, Be'eri, Netiv HaAsara, and others, where they killed civilians, took hostages, and set homes on fire. The Kfar Aza massacre resulted in over 200 civilian deaths, the Be'eri massacre claimed 108 lives (10% of the kibbutz's population), and the Netiv HaAsara massacre resulted in 15 casualties. In addition, Sderot and Ofakim were also affected, with hostages taken and violent incidents occurring. Hamas claimed they took prisoners to secure the release of Palestinian detainees.

8th October, 2023

Initial Military Actions

On the 8th of October, Israel initiated airstrikes on 426 Hamas targets within the Gaza Strip. The town of Beit Hanoun suffered extensive damage due to these airstrikes, including the destruction of the Al-Amin Muhammad Mosque.

The targets ranged from housing blocks, tunnels, and homes of Hamas officials to the Watan Tower, a significant hub for internet providers in the region. One Israeli airstrike resulted in the tragic loss of 19 lives from the same family, including women and children. Survivors of the strike maintained that there were no militants in their area, and they received no prior warning.

About 18 hours after the confrontation began, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced the successful rescue of hostages in Be'eri. In Urim, a suburb of Ofakim, two Israelis were rescued by the IDF, resulting in the death of four Hamas militants and injuries to three Israeli soldiers. Meanwhile, another wave of Hamas rocket attacks was launched in the morning, with one rocket striking the Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon. Hamas also fired approximately 100 rockets at Sderot, and the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP) reported engagements with Israeli forces in various locations.

Declaration of War and Ongoing Military Operations

The Israeli government's State Security Cabinet formally declared the country to be in a state of war against Hamas, marking the first time such a declaration had been made since the 1973 Yom Kippur War. The IDF reported resolving two hostage situations and regaining control of the Sderot police station, where ten Hamas militants were killed. The IDF also secured 22 locations from Palestinian forces but continued efforts to clear eight others, including the rest of Sderot and Kfar Aza. Notably, they successfully rescued 50 hostages in one community.

As the situation escalated, residents in proximity to Gaza were ordered to evacuate. A former brigadier general, Gal Hirsch, was appointed to lead the efforts to locate missing and kidnapped citizens. The IDF called in up to 300,000 reservists, with the objective of eliminating Hamas's military capabilities and overthrowing its rule in Gaza. Consequently, the IDF imposed a lockdown on the West Bank.

9 October, 2023

Intensification of Conflict

On the 9th of October, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched airstrikes on 500 targets in the Gaza Strip, including the densely populated Jabalia refugee camp, resulting in numerous casualties, including children.

 Simultaneously, the IDF regained full control over Israeli towns near the Gaza border, while operations against militants continued in Sderot. Hamas issued a threat to execute Israeli hostages if Israel persisted in bombarding civilian homes without advanced warning.

In response to the situation, Defense Minister Gallant announced a "total" blockade of the Gaza Strip, which involved cutting off electricity and blocking the entry of food and fuel. This move was heavily criticized by Human Rights Watch, which labeled it "abhorrent" and called for the International Criminal Court to take note of this potential war crime. The IDF reported the evacuation of 15 communities around the Gaza Strip. Furthermore, the Israeli Air Force mobilized transport aircraft to collect off-duty IDF personnel from across Europe for deployment in the conflict. Hamas launched another barrage of rockets, targeting Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Ben Gurion Airport.

10th October, 2023

Israeli Airstrikes Target Gaza Locations

On October 10th, Israeli airstrikes targeted various locations in Gaza, including the Hajj Tower, which housed journalists. 

This resulted in casualties among journalists and significant damage. Israeli forces also recaptured an area in Kfar Aza, where they discovered civilian casualties with reports of disturbing violence. These incidents were part of a broader military operation, including airstrikes on Gaza neighborhoods, the Port of Gaza, government buildings in Gaza City, and the Rafah border crossing. Additionally, a high-ranking Hamas leader's family residence was struck.

National Security Minister Announces Arms Procurement

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced the procurement of firearms to arm security teams in border communities, mixed Jewish-Arab cities, and West Bank settlements. This initiative included the distribution of assault rifles, helmets, and bulletproof vests.

Hamas Militants Continue Attacks

Hamas militants carried out attacks on an industrial zone in Ashkelon, resulting in casualties among the militants. Simultaneously, rockets were fired towards Tel Aviv and Ashkelon.

11th October, 2023

Israeli Airstrikes Damage Gaza's Islamic University

Israeli warplanes conducted airstrikes targeting Gaza's Islamic University, which they claimed had been repurposed for weapons production and training.

Formation of Israeli Emergency War Government

In response to the escalating conflict, Israel established an emergency war government with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Gallant, and former Defense Minister Benny Gantz leading a war cabinet. Observers included Gadi Eizenkot and Ron Dermer.

Ambulance Attack and Fuel Shortage: During this time, an Israeli airstrike tragically killed four IFRC paramedics inside an ambulance. Meanwhile, Gaza's only power plant faced fuel shortages due to blockades imposed by both Israel and Egypt.

12th October, 2023

Israeli Airstrikes Target Militant Forces

Israel reported targeting Hamas's elite Nukhba forces, their command centers, and a senior Hamas operative's residence believed to store weapons. Airstrikes also killed commanders from smaller militant groups.

Continued Attacks and Political Statements

There were reports of rocket attacks in Sderot, resulting in injuries and property damage. In response to these attacks, Israeli Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Israel Katz emphasized that the Gaza blockade would not be lifted until hostages abducted by Hamas were safely returned.

13th October, 2023

IDF Evacuation Orders and Humanitarian Concerns

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued evacuation orders for communities in northern Gaza, including Gaza City, leading to the displacement of around 1.1 million Palestinians. These orders raised concerns over devastating humanitarian consequences. While some humanitarian organizations condemned these orders, Israeli Defense Minister Gallant called on Palestinians to move south for their safety.

Claims of Hamas Plans and International Appeals

NBC News reported on purported "top secret" Hamas documents outlining plans to target schools and civilians. 

International organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations, issued appeals for a ceasefire and criticized evacuation orders and blockades.

Explosions and Conflicting Accounts

Amid the evacuation efforts, an explosion along one of the safe routes resulted in numerous casualties, and the cause remained disputed. Conflicting accounts emerged regarding the responsibility for the explosion.

14th October, 2023

IDF Targets Hamas Aerial Operations Chief

IDF reported that they had carried out an overnight airstrike, resulting in the death of Murad Abu Murad, the head of Hamas's aerial operations.

Israel's Vision for a Smaller Gaza

Israeli Minister Gideon Sa'ar, in an interview with Channel 12 News, expressed the view that Gaza should be reduced in size as a consequence of the ongoing conflict. He suggested the creation of a designated security zone where entry would be intercepted, emphasizing the need for clarity in ending the campaign.

15th October, 2023

Israel's Humanitarian Zone Plan

Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Michael Herzog, outlined plans to establish a substantial humanitarian zone in the southern part of Gaza in coordination with the United Nations (UN). The proposed zone would be capable of accommodating hundreds of thousands of Gazans.

16th October, 2023

Civil Defense Headquarters Targeted

A tragic event unfolded when an Israeli airstrike targeted the headquarters of Civil Defense in Gaza City, resulting in the death of seven paramedics.

Hamas Offers to Release Hostages

Amidst the ongoing conditions, a spokesperson for Hamas announced the group's willingness to release international hostages once the situation on the ground allowed for such actions.

17th October, 2023

Israeli Strikes Continue in Southern Gaza

Israel continued its military operations, with reports of airstrikes in southern Gaza. Ministry of Health officials in Gaza reported that heavy overnight bombing in several areas had led to significant casualties, including families who had evacuated from Gaza City in the north.

Hospital Parking Lot Explosion Controversy

A significant incident occurred in Gaza City on October 17 when an explosion rocked the parking lot of the Al-Ahli Arabi Baptist Hospital. The cause of the explosion was disputed, with the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry attributing it to an Israeli airstrike, while the IDF claimed it was the result of a failed rocket launch by Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). The IDF released evidence in support of its stance, including an intercepted phone conversation between Hamas militants.

18th October, 2023

Hospital Blast Investigation and Aid Allocation

President Biden disclosed that the Pentagon had independently determined the cause of the hospital explosion. Contrary to previous beliefs, the investigation concluded that the explosion was not the result of an Israeli airstrike but was attributed to another party. This determination was grounded in data sourced from the Defense Department. Additionally, on-site imagery captured after the incident displayed minimal structural harm to the hospital, and the resulting blast crater was relatively shallow, which raised doubts about an Israeli airstrike. Furthermore, there was a notable divergence in casualty figures, with the Gaza Health Ministry's count contested by various European, Israeli, and American assessments.

In another incident on the same day, an Israeli airstrike struck a UNWRA school located in the Al-Maghazi refugee camp, causing six fatalities and injuring 12 individuals. The United States also made a commitment of $100 million in humanitarian assistance for Gaza and the West Bank. This pledge came with a strong call for the reopening of Gaza's border crossings to allow the seamless flow of humanitarian aid.

19th October, 2023

Attack on Historic Church and Intercepted Missile Threat

A building within the compound of the ancient Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Porphyrius, the oldest church in Gaza, became the target of an Israeli attack. The attack led to the loss of at least eight lives and caused a significant number of people to be injured.

Later on the same day, a U.S. warship successfully intercepted a series of cruise missiles and drones originating from Yemen. The purported destination for these projectiles was Israel.

20th October, 2023

UN Secretary-General's Site Visit and American Hostages Released

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres made a visit to the Rafah crossing. During his visit, he emphatically urged Israel to establish a vital humanitarian corridor to Gaza. He described the situation of aid trucks being held up and aid delivery being delayed as deeply distressing.

In a separate development, two individuals with American citizenship who had been held as hostages were released at the border separating Gaza and Israel.

21st October, 2023

Humanitarian Convoy Arrives in Gaza

A group of 20 aid trucks entered Gaza from Egypt through the Rafah crossing. These trucks carried supplies such as medicine, medical equipment, and food. According to a reporter from Al Jazeera, Israeli attacks had damaged the main road, causing delays for aid buses and trucks. Egypt was making efforts to repair the road, but unfortunately, the crossing was shut down again once the convoy had passed through. The United Nations Secretary-General stressed the urgent need for a much greater supply of essential items for the people in Gaza.

22nd October, 2023

Israeli Airstrike Targets Mosque in Jenin Refugee Camp

On the 22nd of October, Israeli military forces launched an airstrike on a mosque in the Jenin refugee camp, resulting in the death of at least two Palestinians.

23rd October, 2023

Release of Two Elderly Israeli Women by Hamas

On this date, Hamas released two elderly Israeli women. One of them, 85-year-old Yocheved Lifshitz, reported that she was mistreated during her journey across the border but also mentioned the kindness shown by her captors in Gaza.

24th October, 2023

Escalation of Violence and Humanitarian Crisis

Gaza's health ministry reported that during the night of the 24th, over 700 Palestinians lost their lives, causing a severe collapse of the health system in Gaza. The United Nations pleaded with Israel to allow more aid into Gaza to address the growing humanitarian crisis.

25th October, 2023

Disputed Accounts Surrounding the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital Explosion

The New York Times published a video analysis challenging the official narrative provided by Israel and the United States regarding the explosion at the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital. The analysis suggested that the widely publicized video of an alleged Palestinian rocket breaking up in mid-air actually depicted the disintegration of an Israeli rocket miles away, unrelated to the hospital incident.

Killing of Al Jazeera Bureau Chief's Family

Several members of the family of Wael Dahdouh, Al Jazeera Arabic's Gaza bureau chief, were killed in an Israeli airstrike in the Nuseirat refugee camp. They had sought shelter there after following Israeli instructions for Palestinian civilians to move south from northern Gaza. This incident was condemned by Al Jazeera, labeling it an indiscriminate attack.

27th October, 2023

International Calls for Ceasefire and Aid Access

More than 250 lawyers and legal academics in the UK urged their government to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza and to halt arms sales to Israel that could potentially breach international law. They raised concerns about ongoing violations of international law in Gaza. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported that its headquarters had lost contact, disrupting Gazans' ability to request emergency assistance.

UN General Assembly Votes for Humanitarian Truce

The United Nations General Assembly voted with strong support for a resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian truce in Gaza and access for aid. The resolution received 120 votes in favor, with 45 abstentions, but 14 countries, including Israel, the United States, and several others, voted against it.

Israel's Intensified Offensive and Ground Incursion

Starting from October 27th, internet and mobile phone services in Gaza were severely disrupted as Israel intensified its bombing campaign. Following this escalation, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a large-scale ground incursion into the Gaza Strip. There have been reports of clashes between Hamas and the IDF in areas near the towns of Beit Hanoun and Bureij.

28th October, 2023

Continued IDF Presence in Gaza

Israel confirmed that military units deployed within the Gaza Strip on the previous Friday night remained on the ground.

Death Rates:

(source: Death rates)

Historical Data on Casualties and Displacement in the Conflict:

The Israel-Palestine conflict has a distressing history of claiming lives and displacing populations. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has meticulously documented fatalities associated with this conflict since 2008. To date, the conflict has resulted in 7,300 Palestinian fatalities and more than 152,560 injuries. On the Israeli side, there have been 1,308 fatalities and 6,307 injuries. In 2023 alone, over 900 Palestinian fatalities and more than 4,500 injuries have been reported, along with 1,000 Israeli fatalities and 3,000 injuries.

The conflict has also led to significant displacement among Palestinians. The initial Palestine-Israeli war in 1948 forced approximately 750,000 Palestinians to leave their homes. In 2021, the United Nations reported that more than 72,000 Palestinians were displaced following an 11-day battle. The current Israel-Palestine conflict has resulted in the displacement of more than 263,000 individuals.

WORLD ECONOMY CHANGES

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas is creating new risks for the global economy. Economists warn of potential consequences including rising oil prices, increased inflation, and economic uncertainty. The conflict has already had significant repercussions, with a spike in oil prices, disruptions in futures markets, and depreciation of the Israeli currency.

Economic Fallout from the Conflict:

The conflict has intensified amid an already fragile global economy. International Monetary Fund chief economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas describes the global economy as "limping along." The crisis has overshadowed the annual joint meeting of the IMF and the World Bank in Morocco.

Humanitarian and Economic Concerns:

World Bank President Ajay Banga emphasizes the dual impact of the conflict, terming it both a humanitarian tragedy and an economic shock. The conflict began with Hamas militants crossing into Israel and launching a wave of attacks near the Gaza border. This has resulted in significant casualties and injuries on both sides.

Market Reactions and Uncertainty:

The conflict initially led to a surge in oil prices, a dip in futures markets, and a seven-year low for the Israeli shekel. However, market reactions have been relatively muted due to the prevailing uncertainty regarding the conflict's future trajectory.

Risk of Conflict Escalation:

There is growing concern about the potential for the conflict to widen. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned of severe consequences for Hamas, and Israel has mobilized significant military forces. The U.S. has also shown support by deploying an aircraft carrier strike group.

Global Economic Impact:

Economist Mohamed El-Erian underscores the risk of the conflict expanding and involving other parties, which could weaken the global economy and exacerbate inflationary pressures. The situation in the Middle East has historically been high-risk for broader regional conflicts.

Impact on Inflation and Global Trade:

Rising oil prices are directly linked to the cost of living, impacting consumers as fuel costs rise. The increase in inflationary pressures is compounded by disruptions in bond prices, as investors seek safe havens. The uncertainty and conflict have disrupted global trade, further contributing to inflationary pressures.

Long-Term Consequences:

Stakeholders, including consumers, investors, and policymakers, must prepare for a protracted resolution to the conflict. The enduring uncertainty surrounding the situation suggests that its economic consequences will be enduring as well.

Potential Involvement of Major Oil Suppliers:

The conflict may draw in significant oil suppliers, including Saudi Arabia and Iran. The extent of Iran's involvement in planning the attack is unclear, but it is a known supporter of Hamas. Saudi Arabia had been nearing a historic peace and trade deal with Israel, but this is now uncertain, complicating the oil market's response.

Global Oil Price Impact and India's Concerns

The repercussions of this conflict extend far beyond the region, sending ripples through the global economy. Should the conflict expand to other parts of the Middle East, notably Iran, a major oil producer, the situation could deteriorate further. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates play pivotal roles as oil-producing nations in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil producer, contributes 13% of the world's total oil production, with a daily output of roughly 12 million barrels.

Iraq, the second-largest oil producer in the Middle East, generates approximately 4.27 million barrels per day. Meanwhile, the UAE, with a daily production exceeding 3.24 million barrels, stands as another influential producer. The immediate consequence of the conflict is a surge in oil prices. Ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which supplies one-third of the world's oil, have already driven crude oil prices to around $90 per barrel. The global benchmark, Brent crude futures, has witnessed a 4% increase, reaching $89 per barrel, while U.S. crude futures have surpassed $87 per barrel.

India, as the world's third-largest crude oil importer, is significantly affected by these developments. Its petroleum consumption is growing at a rate of 3%, surpassing the global average of 1%. Iraq serves as the primary supplier, accounting for 22% of India's crude oil imports. India enjoys a robust trade relationship with Israel, with exports totaling $3.39 billion and imports at $2.3 billion, resulting in a merchandise trade surplus of $6.1 billion.

India has also made substantial investments in Israel, with several Indian businesses, including TCS, State Bank of India, Sun Pharma, and Tech Mahindra, well-established in the region. The disruption of trade could have far-reaching implications for these enterprises and, consequently, the Indian economy. Given the current circumstances, Indian exporters may face elevated insurance premiums and shipping costs, which could further impact the trade balance.

Powerful Life Lesson: 

The Israel-Palestine conflict, marred by the loss of countless lives, teaches us a timeless and potent lesson. It impresses upon our hearts the profound value of every human existence, regardless of our origin or beliefs. In the crucible of this enduring struggle, we discover the indispensable need to transcend animosity and cultivate empathy, replace hatred with understanding, and mend the divisions that separate us.

This lesson is a testament to the transformative power of compassion and unity. It challenges us to become architects of peace, advocates for reconciliation, and champions of the sanctity of life. It is a stark reminder that monumental change often springs from a single, potent seed—a seed of kindness, empathy, and a resolute commitment to creating a world where every soul is cherished.

In our own lives, let us harness this enduring lesson. May we embrace the innate potential within each of us to be agents of healing, unifying the threads of our shared humanity. As we move forward, let us kindle the flame of hope, determined to build a world where the value of life takes precedence over conflict, and where the symphony of peace drowns out the dissonance of division.