Recent Conflict in Palestine: What Happened?
The conflict between Israel and Palestine has been going on for decades, but the latest conflict marks a significant escalation. In May 2021, tensions that had been accumulating in the Gaza and West Bank regions again boiled over, resulting in rocket attacks from Gaza and retaliatory air strikes from Israel. Since then, the situation has continued to develop and add to the complexity of the conflict.
One of the main triggering factors was the expulsion of Palestinians from Sheikh Jarrah, a neighborhood in East Jerusalem, which sparked massive demonstrations. The protests focused on violations of human rights and justice in the occupied territories. Israel’s reaction to these protests, including the closure of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, sparked more tensions. The confrontation at the holy site created a series of reactions that triggered rocket attacks from Hamas, the jihadist group that controls Gaza.
During the May 2021 conflict, thousands of rockets were launched towards Israeli cities, while Israeli airstrikes destroyed much of the infrastructure in Gaza. According to reports, thousands of people were injured, and hundreds of Palestinian civilians were killed in the attacks. The attacks also caused extensive damage to homes and important facilities, making the humanitarian situation in Gaza even worse.
Several months later, the situation in the West Bank remains tense. Israel’s defense continues to carry out operations in the region claiming to tackle terror attacks, while Palestinians feel the impact of the deprivation of their basic rights. Israel’s illegal settlement planting continues despite international criticism.
In 2023, new tensions emerged as the more extreme Netanyahu Government introduced more aggressive policies towards the Palestinians. The passage of laws providing legal support for illegal settlements and increased military operations resulted in protests in the West Bank and Jerusalem. The appointment of a tough leader in the Israeli government further worsened relations with the Palestinians.
On the international side, many countries have called for a peaceful solution, but the peace process appears to have stalled. The United States, which has traditionally been a mediator, faces challenges in facilitating constructive dialogue. With the existence of various new alliances in the Middle East region, the geopolitical situation is increasingly complicated, with several Arab countries choosing to normalize relations with Israel.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is also worsening as a result of the blockade that has lasted more than a decade. Reports from international organizations show that more than 50% of Gaza’s population lives in poverty, with limited access to clean water, electricity and medical services. The international community is now pressing for emergency assistance to support the civilian population most affected.
Continued uncertainty and political instability create major challenges for economic and social development in Palestine. Young people, who may have never known a normal life before the conflict, are now trapped in a cycle of violence and uncertainty. Achieving justice and peace in the region appears to be an increasingly difficult task, while feelings of frustration and loss of hope continue to plague the Palestinian and Israeli people.
Rather than waiting for a possible resolution, sincere and targeted local and international dialogue is urgently needed to create an atmosphere conducive to long-term peace. Only then can the hope of a peaceful future for both sides be realized.