The conflict in Gaza has persisted for half a year, leading to growing impatience among Israel's allies. The escalating death toll in Gaza highlights Israel's lack of a clear strategy to end the war or navigate the aftermath.
Israel's relentless pursuit of Hamas in Gaza, despite severe humanitarian consequences, has isolated the country internationally. Several global organizations have cautioned that Israel's actions might constitute genocide.
Even Israel's closest allies, including the United States and the United Kingdom, are openly criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Calls to halt arms shipments to Israel are gaining traction in these countries.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu's government is facing mounting domestic pressure, with large-scale protests calling for his resignation reemerging.
The conflict began immediately after the October 7 terror attacks by Hamas.
Israel initially aimed to eliminate Hamas and secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.
Six months later, neither objective has been achieved. While the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claim to have killed thousands of Hamas fighters, top leaders like Yayha Sinwar continue to elude capture, and Hamas' political figures remain beyond reach abroad.
Although over 100 hostages have been freed in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli prisons, approximately 130 hostages, including 99 believed to still be alive, remain in Gaza.
The toll on Palestinians has been devastating, with over 33,000 people, including thousands of children, killed since October 7.
Additionally, more than 75,000 have been injured, and over a million are on the brink of starvation, facing imminent famine according to international organizations.
Experts argue that Israel's goal of eliminating Hamas is unattainable and domestically popular.
Hamas has been the dominant authority in Gaza since 2007, controlling all facets of governance, security, healthcare, education, and social services.
Israel's political divisions persist, but the majority of Israelis support the war in Gaza despite international condemnation of its impact on Palestinian civilians.
Israel's lack of a concrete plan for Gaza's future is straining its relations with allies like the United States, Britain, Germany, and France.
Netanyahu's proposed plan for Gaza's post-Hamas era, unveiled in February, faced opposition from key stakeholders, including the US, Egypt, and the UAE.
Alternative proposals, such as temporary international security control over Gaza, are hindered by Israel's insistence on maintaining full security control over the territory.
In conclusion, the conflict in Gaza has reached an impasse, with no clear path forward. Israel's pursuit of eliminating Hamas is proving futile, and the toll on Palestinians is catastrophic.
The international community's trust in Israel's strategy is dwindling, leaving the region in a precarious and uncertain state.