Why is it in the news?

• October 7 marks one year since Hamas’s terrorist attacks on Israel, which triggered a prolonged conflict. Israel’s military response has devastated Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 41,000 people, while Hamas still holds 97 of the original 251 hostages.

An Analysis

Israel’s Perspective

• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, initially facing low popularity, has vowed to eliminate Hamas. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have conducted extensive military operations, resulting in significant casualties in Gaza.
• Meanwhile, Israel has escalated its conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen, responding to attacks that have disrupted international shipping.
• Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel continues its operations in Gaza, having largely ignored suggestions for restraint.
• The Israeli government, particularly under Netanyahu, has shifted further from accepting a two-state solution, with the Knesset rejecting Palestinian sovereignty in July.
• Public sentiment in Israel has consolidated against Palestinian statehood, driven by far-right political support for Netanyahu.

Arab States’ Stance

• Arab nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE remain committed to a geopolitical reset initiated before the conflict. While the war has intensified focus on Palestinian sovereignty, these countries are leveraging their relations with Israel to push for a settlement.
• The Abraham Accords remain intact despite the high casualties in Gaza, and Arab leaders are increasingly framing normalization with Israel as a pathway to addressing Palestinian concerns.
• Arab public opinion is largely against Israel’s military actions, prompting regional powers to adopt either mediatory or confrontational stances.
• Turkey’s Erdogan has intensified anti-Israel rhetoric, while Qatar seeks to mediate between Israel and Hamas.

U.S. and Western Response

• The U.S.-Israel relationship remains strong, with Washington providing unwavering support. However, frustration with Netanyahu’s approach has grown within the Biden administration. While the U.S. has attempted to mediate, its influence appears limited as the presidential election approaches.
• European nations are cautious, echoing U.S. calls for restraint while maintaining Israel’s right to defend itself. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine complicates their stance, balancing commitments against Russia with those in the Middle East.

India’s Position

• India has maintained a balanced approach, expressing solidarity with Israel while advocating for Palestinian sovereignty. Prime Minister Modi has engaged in discussions with both Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, reiterating India’s support for a two-state solution.
• India’s strategic interests in the region remain intact, although the ongoing conflict may affect plans for initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

Conclusion

• Long-term stability will depend on whether Israel recognizes a Palestinian state, which could mitigate Iran’s influence and pave the way for improved Arab-Israeli relations.
• As the conflict persists, the international community watches closely, mindful that the resolution of the Palestinian issue is essential for lasting peace in West Asia.