The ongoing conflict in Gaza, now lasting nearly 700 days, has led to catastrophic humanitarian conditions, with reports indicating that 60% of buildings and 90% of homes have been damaged or destroyed.

According to Hamas-affiliated health authorities, the war has resulted in over 61,000 Palestinian deaths and 145,000 serious injuries, although the actual toll may be significantly higher due to infrastructure destruction and medical care shortages.

A recent analysis published in The Lancet estimates that the true death toll could range between 186,000 and 207,000, suggesting that Israel's military actions have led to the deaths of 5-10% of Gaza's prewar population of approximately 2.2 million.

Israel's military strategy has faced intense international scrutiny, with accusations of mass atrocities and potential genocide, raising concerns about the long-term implications for Israel's global standing and its relationships with Western powers.

Historically, Israel's approach of punishing civilian populations has failed to achieve its objectives, often resulting in increased support for opposing groups rather than diminishing their influence.

Despite the immense suffering experienced by Gazans, support for Hamas has either remained stable or increased, with recent polling indicating that Hamas's popularity now surpasses that of its rival, Fatah, particularly in the West Bank.

Critics assert that Israel's tactics, which include targeting civilians and infrastructure, reflect a broader strategy that punishes the entire population rather than just Hamas, challenging the perception of Israel as a democracy.

In light of these developments, it is suggested that Israel must reconsider its military actions and explore alternative strategies that prioritize humanitarian aid and political solutions, rather than continuing a campaign that has proven to be morally and strategically untenable.