Israel and Hamas have once again engaged in conflict. Hamas initiated a surprise attack on Israel, prompting Israel to respond with airstrikes. The toll from the fighting stands at over 313 Palestinians and more than 350 Israelis killed, with over 2,000 people injured. This recent escalation follows weeks of heightened tension in the region.
Jewish settlers conducting provocative visits to the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex in occupied East Jerusalem and an increase in violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians have fueled the tensions. Hamas, through its armed branch known as the Al-Qassam Brigades, declared its intention to carry out “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood” to hold Israel accountable for its aggressive actions. Hamas claims it is fighting to protect the Al-Aqsa Mosque and to halt settler violence, while Israel insists that Hamas initiated the conflict and vows to continue its attacks until it significantly weakens Hamas.
The United States, the United Nations (UN), and other countries have called for a ceasefire.
OIC Condemns Israel’s military aggression
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expressed grave concern over the situation, condemning Israeli military aggression and emphasizing that the Israeli occupation and its failure to adhere to international resolutions have contributed to instability. The OIC held Israel accountable for the escalation and urged the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, to intervene, provide international protection for Palestinians, and facilitate a credible political process leading to an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital based on the 1967 borders and a two-state solution.
Key developments in the conflict include the deaths of at least 313 Palestinians and 350 Israelis, with many wounded, as well as reports of hostages and prisoners of war. The situation has escalated after provocative visits by settlers to the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex in East Jerusalem, and both Israeli and Palestinian leaders have communicated with their respective allies.
The handling of the surprise attacks by Hamas is expected to be investigated after the conflict concludes. The Israeli government has reported at least 100 Israeli casualties, but local media suggests the number may be higher. In Gaza, there is widespread shock and fear among the residents.
Saleh al-Arouri, deputy head of Hamas’ political bureau, has stated that the Palestinian resistance will not tolerate the desecration of sacred sites and the ongoing siege on Gaza. He claims that Hamas holds enough Israeli captives to negotiate the release of Palestinian prisoners. Hamas is determined to fight for freedom and to safeguard holy sites, even in the face of a potential worst-case scenario. Additionally, there are concerns that Israel had plans to launch attacks on the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
