Hamas militant group’s surprise attack on Israel has raised concerns about the geopolitical tensions and the various alliances formed among nations.
On October 7, 2023, the Hamas group that governs the Gaza Strip waged unwarranted attacks on Israel. The inhumane atrocities of killing and abduction lasted over five hours, violating human rights. Consequently, Israel has declared a “state of war” against Palestine.
The ongoing conflict of over 70 years has several political implications on International relations. Needless to say, both nations have formed an alliance with other countries. While Palestine has received support from most Middle Eastern countries, Israel was endorsed by many Western countries, including the U.S., U.K., Australia, France, Norway, Austria, and many more.
The conflict never found a resolution in all these years, and the recent incursion by the Hamas group has only escalated the conflict into a full-blown war.
President Joe Biden declared in a press conference that the U.S. would be extending “Rock Solid” and “Unwavering” support to Israel in the form of aircraft carriers, ships, and jets to the eastern Mediterranean along with additional equipment and ammunition. They have also committed to additional military aid for Israel. Although it doesn’t seem like the inception of World War 3, the ramifications of these alliances would be catastrophic for civilians.
What Is the Hamas Attack on Israel?ย
On October 7, 2023, the Hamas militant group invaded the Israel borders along the Gaza Strip, breaking the barricades. Meanwhile, missiles were launched in a series of projections toward Israel, causing heavy disruption, and the wee hours of 6:30 a.m. on a Saturday turned into a harrowing nightmare for the civilians.ย
An hour later, the Hamas militia of about 50 men wreaked havoc on the nearby areas, intruding on people’s houses and killing them. Some Israelis were even abducted and taken hostage.
But the attacks got international exposure after the group stormed the Supernova music festival along the Gaza-Israel border. The Israeli rescue service Zaka reported over 260 people were killed in an open fire. Women were abducted, sexually assaulted (allegedly), and killed by the armed militia. No man was spared on the open field as people sought any refuge.
Among the victims were several International tourists, including a 23-year-old American-Israeli Hersh Golberg-Polin. Another victim still reportedly missing is peace activist Vivian Silver from North America.
This sparked international outrage, especially in the U.S., which has been an Israel ally since the beginning. American citizens getting harmed amidst the conflict was the fuel to the fire.
Is the U.S. Military Going to Help Israel?
President Biden has condemned these attacks as “unprecedented and appalling assault.”
He declared unwavering support to Israel, stating that the U.S. defense would coordinate with the Israeli military against the Hamas militant group.
America’s allegiance to Israel also comes along with Iran’s alleged involvement in funding the Palestinian-based Hamas militant group.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said,
“Hamas wouldn’t be Hamas without the support it’s gotten over many years from Iran. We haven’t yet seen direct evidence that Iran was behind this particular attack or involved. But the support over many years is clear.”
Meanwhile, ex-president and current running Republican candidate Donald Trump also brought up his support for Israel during his campaign in Iowa. He also predicts that this conflict might be the first phase of an impending World War 3.
On the contrary, Saudi Arabia, which has openly supported Palestine, has suggested a peace treaty with a two-state solution.
What Is the U.S. Sending to Israel?
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has strategized a defense and aid for Israel’s military. He briefs about the next steps, statingโ
“I have directed the movement of the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group to the Eastern Mediterranean.”
“This includes the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Normandy (C.G. 60), as well as the Arleigh-Burke-class guided missile destroyers USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116), USS Ramage (DDG 61), USS Carney (DDG 64), and USS Roosevelt (DDG 80). We have also taken steps to augment U.S. Air Force F-35, F-15, F-16, and A-10 fighter aircraft squadrons in the region. The U.S. maintains ready forces globally to further reinforce this deterrence posture if required.”
What is your take on the U.S.’s involvement in war? Do you agree with Saudi Arabia’s stance on the conflict? Let us know in the comments section below.
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