srael’s war on Gaza has intensified into a devastating massacre with far-reaching consequences, highlighting severe human rights violations, regional political tensions and complex international diplomacy. The violence has sparked widespread accusations of genocide. Israeli airstrikes have caused massive civilian casualties and crippled essential infrastructure. More than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed brutally; more 93,000 have sustained multiple injuries since October 7, 2023. The relentless bombardment of Gaza has prompted global outrage. Many have viewed it as a deliberate attempt to decimate a population trapped in one of the most densely populated and blockaded regions of the world.

Having seen images of babies being killed in Gaza, many, especially the youth, have taken to the streets in protest against Israeli actions, condemning what they see as genocidal violence. From New York and London to Paris and Sydney, such demonstrations highlight a growing global awareness and rejection of injustice, inequality and war on Gaza. This reflects a generational shift in public opinion that is increasingly critical of Israel’s policies. Social media has played a crucial role in amplifying these voices. Graphic images and videos from Gaza have spread rapidly online, mobilising international solidarity and demanding accountability of the Netanyahu-led war government.

It has been argued that Israel’s domestic politics has been a factor in the government’s extreme stance in Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has leveraged the war to galvanise nationalist support, claiming that the military campaign is necessary for Israel’s security and survival as a Zionist state. However, this approach has divided Israeli society, prompting criticism from those who see it as a cynical ploy to maintain power amidst corruption scandals, judicial maneuvering, social disharmony and political instability. The ongoing war has fuelled the internal debate about the sustainability of Israel’s military strategy and its long-term consequences for peace and security. While some Israelis support the government in its tough response to Hamas rocket attacks, others have expressed concern about the ethical and strategic implications of frequent violence with no end in sight.

Iran’s role in the Middle East has also been significant. It has sought to positions itself as a staunch defender of Palestinian rights. Tehran’s vocal condemnation of Israel has been accompanied by support for Hamas and groups like Hezbollah. It has framed the recent conflict as a part of the broader struggle against Israeli and the Western hegemony in the region. Iran has sought to bolster its influence and counterbalance Israeli power. At home, the Iranian government has used the war to rally public support, portraying itself as a leader in the fight against oppression, thereby distracting the people from internal challenges such as economic and social issues.

The United States has tried to broker ceasefires, often working with Egypt and Qatar to negotiate temporary truces. The effectiveness of these efforts has been limited.

The United States has played a critical role in Gaza. A staunch ally of Israel, it has also positioned itself as the only viable mediator. The Biden administration has continued the longstanding US policy of providing virtually unlimited military aid to Israel. This has included advanced weaponry and missile defence systems like the Iron Dome, which shielded Israeli cities from recent Hezbollah drones and rockets attack. This unwavering support has drawn criticism at home and internationally. Its opponents have argued that it enables Israel’s military actions in Gaza and perpetuates the cycle of violence and death. Diplomatically, the US has tried to broker ceasefires, often working with Egypt and Qatar to negotiate temporary truces. The effectiveness of these efforts has been limited.

While temporary truces have been negotiated in recent months, they collapse amid renewed hostilities and a lack of political will. The Netanyahu government sees war as something it can use against its political rivals.

Hamas has demanded, among other things, the lifting of the Israeli blockade on Gaza. The Israeli side has insisted on the disarmament of Hamas and an end to drone and rocket attacks and preferred military action over negotiation. The failure of ceasefire efforts underscores the need for a comprehensive peace process that addresses the underlying causes of the conflict, including the occupation, blockade and the political status of Gaza. Being a global power and a close ally of Israel, the US can play a role in realising an effective ceasefire.

Hezbollah’s recent attacks on Israel have opened a new front. Israel has threatened to expand the war. Hezbollah’s latest drone and rocket attacks into northern Israel have drawn retaliatory airstrikes, raising the specter of a broader regional war that could involve more state and non-state actors. The involvement of Hezbollah has not only complicated Israel’s military calculus but also raised the risk of a wider confrontation that could destabilise the entire region.

Israel also launched a massive attack against the West Bank. Hundreds of Israeli soldiers conducted the operation in Jenin, Tulkarem and the Far’a refugee camp near Tubas. Israeli forces have killed at least 10 Palestinians in what is said to be Israel’s largest assault there in 20 years.

As genocidal violence in Gaza continues, questions arise about whether a US leader, including the presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, could play a decisive role in ending the war and ensuring lasting peace between Israel and Palestine. Harris has expressed support for a diplomatic solution and humanitarian aid for Gaza. However, a quick resolution remains unlikely. The end of this conflict will require international pressure especially by the US and a fundamental shift in Israeli approach in terms of conceding statehood to Palestinians in accordance with UN resolutions.

The writer has a PhD in political science from Heidelberg University and a post-doc from UC Berkeley. He is a DAAD, FDDI and Fulbright fellow and an associate professor. He can be reached at ejaz.bhatty@gmail.com