The long-standing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the group controlling Gaza, has once again flared up in recent weeks, causing concerns both regionally and globally. The ongoing violence has resulted in numerous casualties, destruction of infrastructure, displacement of civilians, and high tensions across the Israel and Palestinian divide.
Just recently the US has started to aid its ally Israel. They have done this financially and by giving them numerous types of weapons ranging from guns to types of missiles. The US has consistently backed Israel’s right to defend itself against attacks from Hamas and other militant groups. This includes showing solidarity with Israel, allowing Hamas’ actions, and calling on all parties to calm tensions. The US has given israel financial resources for the development of the Iron Dome missile defense system. This system intercepts and eliminates incoming rockets launched by Hamas towards Israeli civilian areas, saving many lives.
The US and Israel also collaborate on counterterrorism efforts, which includes sharing intelligence information on threats originating from Gaza or elsewhere in the region. This aims to prevent attacks by Hamas and disrupt their networks. The US uses its influence with organizations like the United Nations to help with Israel’s interests. Additionally, American officials actively engage in negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Recently the violence has been increasing significantly with the death toll rising to almost 6,000 people with many of these people being innocent. Both parties have engaged in military operations, leading to widespread destruction of infrastructure and loss of human lives. The firing of rockets by Hamas into Israeli territories and retaliation airstrikes by Israel significantly increase tensions.
It also does not look like the mass amounts of violence is going to come to a halt anytime soon. Negotiations become even more challenging due to different interests, different looks on land rights, different self-determination wants, and security concerns from both sides.
Both Israel and Hamas have faced accusations of violating international humanitarian law and committing war crimes during the course of this war. There have been reports of extreme use of force, targeting civilian areas, and stopping humanitarian aid efforts. Such actions not only destroy peace but also destroy trust among nations trying to find a resolution.
The Israel-Hamas conflict is a very important conflict in the world right now and its resolution needs to happen before even more mass casualties happen. The ongoing violence shows a violent cycle with no clear end in sight, as attempts to find lasting peace are constantly destroyed. It is crucial for international parties like America to redouble their efforts in finding a solution that addresses the causes of this extremely violent conflict.
