Tensions across the Middle East remain dangerously high as Israel’s campaign in Gaza enters its second year. The conflict, ignited by Hamas’s on October 7, 2023 resulted in attacks that killed about 1,200 Israelis and saw more than 250 hostages taken, has left Gaza devastated and the world divided over Israel’s military conduct.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that over 38,000 Palestinians have been killed, while the World Health Organization (WHO) reports Gaza’s medical system has “nearly collapsed,” with widespread famine and disease spreading through the area.

Israel continuous to claim its operations are aimed at dismantling Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said, “Israel will not stop until Hamas can no longer threaten our people.” But rights organizations have accused Israel of collective punishment. Human Rights Watch stated in October that Israel’s campaign is “indiscriminate and disproportionate,” warning of potential violations of international law.

Global leaders remain split. Former President Joe Biden said in late 2024, “Israel has a right to defend itself, but the cost in civilian lives is far too high.” Current President Donald Trump, by contrast, voiced full support for Israel, telling Fox News in September 2025, “Israel has to finish the job, they’re dealing with terrorists, and the world needs to let them win.”

In contrast to President Trumps support a group of former IDF chiefs of staff, Mossad directors, Shin Bet chiefs and Israel Police commissioners have signed a joint letter calling for an end to the “futile” Gaza War and the return of the remaining hostages.

‘This is leading the State of Israel to the loss of its security and identity,’

said former Shin Bet director Ami Ayalon.

With many views that conflict each other amongst people in power and with humanitarian conditions worsening and ceasefire talks stalled, the war has become a moral and geopolitical crisis with no clear end in sight.