Bowen analyzes the Israel-Gaza war: Discovering five new realities after four weeks

Since the recent Hamas attacks, the media coverage, analysis, and commentary have been lacking the full story. It is challenging to determine what is happening on the battlefield due to the fog of war. Additionally, the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians is still evolving, and its ultimate shape and consequences remain unknown. There are certain things that we know and things that are still uncertain. Israelis overwhelmingly support the military action against Hamas in Gaza. This support is fueled by the shock of the attacks, the high death toll, and the fact that hostages are still being held. Some Israelis argue that civilian casualties are unfortunate but necessary due to Hamas' actions. However, it is undeniable that Israel's assault on Hamas has resulted in devastating bloodshed. The number of Palestinian casualties is alarming, with the majority being children and women. While the accuracy of these figures is disputed, past conflicts have shown that Palestinian casualty statistics have been considered reliable by international organizations. The United Nations has expressed concerns that Israeli airstrikes have caused disproportionate civilian casualties, potentially constituting war crimes. President Biden initially supported Israel's military action but stressed that it must be conducted in accordance with the laws of war. However, the arrival of Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Tel Aviv suggests that the US administration believes Israel is not adhering to this guidance. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under immense pressure and has faced criticism for the catastrophic failures that left border communities vulnerable. Netanyahu attempted to blame intelligence agencies for the failures, but this move only intensified the dissatisfaction with his leadership. Some prominent figures in Israel's military and security establishment have lost confidence in Netanyahu, comparing him to Neville Chamberlain. The conflict has shattered the old status quo, which relied on managing the Palestinian problem rather than seeking a lasting solution. Netanyahu has consistently argued that there is no partner for peace among the Palestinians and has allowed Hamas to strengthen its power in Gaza. This approach has hindered the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, as it would require concessions of land by Israel. The recent conflict has made it evident that Israel and its American allies will not tolerate Hamas remaining in power. This raises questions about what or who will replace them and the potential for further bloodshed. The century-long conflict between Arabs and Jews for control of the region has demonstrated that there will never be a military solution. The Oslo peace process and attempts to establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel have failed. President Biden and others believe that a two-state solution is the only viable path to peace, but it requires new leadership on both sides and a willingness to challenge deeply ingrained prejudices. If this war fails to shock and prompt a shift in attitudes, the prospects for peace and an end to the conflict will remain bleak. Without a mutually acceptable resolution, future generations of Palestinians and Israelis will be condemned to more wars.