Intensifying scrutiny towards Israel due to the escalating conflict in Gaza

In the heart of the Middle East, the ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to be a subject of intense international discussion. The past few weeks have seen a significant escalation in tensions, with various countries expressing their intentions to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September 2025, including France, Belgium, Canada, Australia, Malta, Portugal, and potentially New Zealand. The UK has also indicated it may recognize Palestine, contingent upon Israeli concessions.

However, Israel's government views the recognition of a Palestinian state as a "reward for Hamas" and an existential threat to the Jewish state. This sentiment was echoed by Israel's military chief, Eyal Zamir, who warned against occupying Gaza City, stating it would lead to an Israeli military administration.

The conflict in Gaza was triggered by a massacre in Israel's border region on October 7, 2023, which resulted in around 1,200 deaths and over 250 kidnappings. Since then, more than 64,200 Palestinians have been killed in the Gaza Strip, according to Hamas' health authority.

Hamas is currently awaiting Israel's response to the international mediators' proposal for a ceasefire. The group is ready for a "comprehensive agreement" involving the release of all hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. This contrasts with Israel's Prime Minister, Netanyahu, who insists on a comprehensive deal involving the simultaneous release of all hostages, unlike previous agreements that saw releases in stages.

The Witkoff proposal, put forward by the US special envoy, involves a 60-day ceasefire, during which initially ten live hostages would be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners from Israeli prisons. However, whether Hamas is willing to release all remaining hostages at once remains unclear based on recent public statements.

Another point of contention is Israel's demand for security control over the Gaza Strip, while Hamas demands the withdrawal of Israeli troops. This issue has led to a stalemate in negotiations, with both sides digging in their heels.

The situation has attracted the attention of global leaders, with EU Vice-President Teresa Ribera using the term "genocide" for the first time in relation to Israel's military operations in Gaza. However, the Israeli government denies this accusation, stating that it is a legend spread by Hamas.

The Forum of Israeli Hostage Families has called on the Israeli Prime Minister and mediators to immediately return to the negotiating table. Meanwhile, Israel's military chief, Eyal Zamir, has expressed support for a deal to free more hostages held by Hamas.

As the situation in Gaza continues to unfold, the international community watches with bated breath, hoping for a peaceful resolution to this long-standing conflict. The operation is set to be expanded and intensified in the coming days, with the hope that diplomatic efforts will bear fruit and bring an end to the suffering in Gaza.