Israel/Gaza: ‘The level of fear is beyond normal’

Some displaced families in areas of southern Gaza are adapting to conditions as best they can.

Historical Background in Israel and Palestine (West Bank, Gaza)

The conflict between Israel and the Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank has deep roots in the complex history of the region. It primarily revolves around competing national aspirations, territorial disputes, and historical grievances. One of the central players in this conflict is Hamas, an organization designated as a terrorist group by Israel, the European Union, and the United States.

The Tragic Event

On October 7, 2023, a horrifying incident unfolded as Hamas fighters carried out a deadly attack at a music festival in Israel. This event sheds light on the ongoing tensions between the two parties.

The Attack

The attack began around 10:00 p.m. local time when a group of heavily armed Hamas fighters infiltrated from the Gaza Strip into Israel. They made their way to a music festival in the town of Sde-Nefesh, near the border. Upon arrival, the attackers opened fire on the crowd, causing dozens of casualties. They also took hostages, including children and teenagers.

The severity of the attack quickly overwhelmed the event’s security forces and local police, highlighting the urgency of addressing the security situation in the region.

Immediate Response

In response to the attack, the Israeli military launched airstrikes on Gaza. These airstrikes targeted both Hamas fighters and civilians, resulting in further casualties. The international community swiftly condemned the attack, with the United States categorizing it as a “heinous act of terrorism.”

Aftermath and Escalating Tensions

As of November 2, 2023, the death toll from the attack has risen to 1,400 in Israel and the number of people killed in Gaza has exceeded 9,000 according to latest reports from de facto authorities there, amid intensifying Israeli airstrikes in response to Hamas attacks, while humanitarians repeated urgent calls for a ceasefire and more aid convoys.

Echoing that message, UN health agency (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus issued a new appeal on Monday for “sustained safe passage” for medical essentials and fuel to keep health facilities open.

The tragic events have further strained the already tense relations between Israel and the Palestinians. They have also also raised concerns about the potential for more violence in the region. As history has shown, such incidents often lead to heightened hostilities, making peace negotiations even more challenging.

International Response

Internationally, these events have prompted strong reactions. Norway, traditionally a supporter of the Palestinians’ cause, has voiced its concern about Israel’s actions, deeming them excessive. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide emphasized the need for a ceasefire and the revival of peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians. Norway’s government and opposition initially supported Israel’s right to self-defense but now assert that international rules of engagement are being breached.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza, compounded by an extensive blockade hindering aid delivery, has further complicated the situation. The international community, including the European Union, has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

According to AP News: “When U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was asked who would govern the Gaza Strip following Israel’s devastating war against Hamas, he said a return of the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority made the most sense. What he failed to mention is that the Palestinian Authority, weak and deeply unpopular with its own people, has already said it has no interest in assuming power if it is helped by Israel. Blinken’s comments Tuesday reflected what some analysts see as the questionable assumptions and short-term thinking that have guided American and Israeli policymakers since Israel declared war in response to Hamas’ Oct. 7 cross-border attack.

Long-Term Peace Efforts

Many believe that the only lasting solution to this protracted conflict involves the establishment of two states, one for Israel and one for the Palestinians. Many countries have supported an international peace conference proposal. Such initiatives aim to build international support for a sustainable peace process in the Middle East. On the other side, Israel’s perspective is that it is acting in self-defense against Hamas, a group they view as a terrorist organization threatening their security. They argue that their actions are focused on targeting Hamas’ military capabilities, and they deny intentionally targeting Palestinian civilians.

Uncertain Future

As the situation continues to evolve, there is growing apprehension about the possibility of the conflict expanding beyond Gaza, potentially affecting the West Bank and neighboring regions. The complexities of this deeply rooted conflict persist, and the road to a lasting resolution remains elusive.