Gaza City – A deal brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States has secured the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a ceasefire and the release of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.The agreement, finalized November 24, 2023, marks a significant, though possibly temporary, pause in the conflict that erupted following hamas’s October 7th attacks on Israel.
The October 7th attacks resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the capture of over 240 hostages. Israel’s subsequent military response in Gaza has resulted in a significant number of Palestinian casualties and widespread destruction. As of late November, Gazan authorities report over 14,000 deaths, a figure that includes a significant number of women and children.
While the ceasefire offers immediate relief and the prospect for increased humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, analysts warn the conflict’s long-term consequences could reshape the landscape of international warfare. Experts suggest the scale of civilian casualties in Gaza may embolden other nations to prioritize military objectives over minimizing harm to non-combatants, despite international norms.
The willingness of the United States to continue providing billions of dollars in annual military aid to Israel, even during a campaign marked by extensive civilian casualties, is cited as a key factor. This contrasts with the “Pottery barn rule,” articulated by former US Secretary of State Colin Powell, which posited that any nation employing military force bears responsibility for the aftermath.the current situation appears to signal a shift away from the post-9/11 emphasis on “clear,hold,build” counterinsurgency strategies,towards a more forceful “crush” approach.
Observers note this conflict may represent a turning point, signaling a move away from the “liberal international order” and its associated norms regarding the laws of war, democracy, and human rights. The true impact of this shift will likely become apparent in future conflicts,as governments may cite Israel’s actions as justification for similar strategies.
israel faces internal political repercussions, including a reckoning over the failures that led to the October 7th attacks, as it prepares for a national election. The future of Gaza remains uncertain, with the potential for the emergence of new armed resistance movements.
