What Is Happening in Gaza? The Causes and Current Situation of the Israel-Palestine Conflict

 

What Is Happening in Gaza?

Recently, the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas has intensified in Gaza, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. Particularly after Hamas' attack on October 7, 2023, Israel launched a large-scale military operation, resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and drawing global attention.

Current Situation in Gaza

As of 2025, the war between Israel and Hamas has continued for 15 months. With mediation from the UN and the international community, a ceasefire agreement was reached on January 15, 2025, and is being implemented in phases:

• Phase 1: A six-week ceasefire, during which 33 Israeli hostages and 2,000 Palestinian prisoners were released.

• Phase 2: Gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces and further hostage exchanges.

• Phase 3: Reconstruction of Gaza and long-term peace negotiations.

However, uncertainty remains about the sustainability of the ceasefire, and civilian casualties are still alarmingly high. Over 2.1 million residents in Gaza are suffering from extreme food shortages and lack of medical aid, with more than 60% of the infrastructure destroyed.

Why Are Palestine and Israel in Conflict?

The conflict between Palestine and Israel dates back to the early 20th century.

1. British Mandate and Jewish Immigration

After World War I, Britain took control of Palestine and issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917, supporting the establishment of a Jewish homeland. This led to mass Jewish immigration, intensifying tensions with the Arab population.

2. Israel's Founding and the 1948 Arab-Israeli War

In 1948, following Britain's withdrawal, Israel was established based on a UN resolution. Surrounding Arab nations opposed this and launched an invasion, marking the start of the First Arab-Israeli War. Israel won and expanded its territory, leaving hundreds of thousands of Palestinians as refugees.

3. The 1967 Six-Day War and Occupied Territories

In the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel occupied the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. Palestinians demanded independence, leading to large-scale uprisings (Intifadas) in 1987 and 2000.

4. Hamas' Control of Gaza in 2007

In 2007, internal political conflicts led Hamas to seize control of Gaza, escalating tensions with Israel. Israel imposed a blockade, while Hamas launched rocket attacks, fueling ongoing hostilities.

Future Prospects

Although ceasefire negotiations are underway, many obstacles remain before lasting peace can be achieved. The international community must expand humanitarian aid and promote peace talks, while both Israel and Palestine need to seek long-term solutions.

Continuous attention and efforts toward peace are essential. The world must take action to prevent further tragedies in Gaza and work towards a sustainable resolution.