On September 12, Israel's Prime Minister Advisor Dmitry Gendelman announced that Israeli forces are close to eradicating the political and military power of Hamas. This declaration comes amid renewed conflict in Gaza, and international outrage following Israel's bombing of a school sheltering displaced individuals.

According to Gendelman, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have nearly achieved one of their operational objectives targeting Hamas in Gaza. Thousands of militants have been killed, and many tunnels destroyed, while the IDF now controls significant checkpoints like the Rafah crossing and the 'Philadelphia Corridor.' The military operations persist as Israel aims to secure the release of captured Israeli personnel.

In a tragic incident on September 11, the IDF bombed the Jorani School in central Gaza's Nuseirat district, operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The attack resulted in at least 18 deaths, including six UNRWA staff members, who were allegedly mistaken for Hamas fighters. UNRWA refuted the IDF's claims that the school was used by Hamas for military purposes.

This latest strike on the Jorani School marks the fifth attack on the institution since the recent escalation in Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The UN Secretary-General's spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, condemned the attacks, labeling them as utterly unacceptable. The death toll continues to climb among both Palestinians and UNRWA workers.

The international community, including high-profile figures like EU Representative Josep Borrell and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, criticized the Israeli military actions. Blinken emphasized the necessity of protecting humanitarian facilities, urging continuous dialogue with Israel. Egypt also condemned the airstrikes for violating international law and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

While Israel's military campaign unfolded, the situation within Israeli borders also remained tense. Weekly protests across major cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem have amplified demands for the government to secure a deal to release hostages held in Gaza. Amidst this, families of the hostages voiced their growing frustration, accusing the government of inaction and urging an expedient end to the hostage ordeal.

In addition to combating Hamas in Gaza, Israel also faces threats from the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Houthis have targeted Israel with missile strikes, the latest of which struck central Israel on December 15 without causing casualties. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of severe repercussions for the Yemeni insurgents who have been launching attacks purportedly in solidarity with Palestinians.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens as Israeli military operations continue. Pope Francis recently addressed the violence, lamenting the persistent cycle of death. He advocated for genuine peace efforts, recognizing the severe impact on civilians, including loss of lives in schools and shelters. His call for peace underscores the broader international plea to halt the violence and prioritize humanitarian support.

Casualties in Gaza soar with every passing day. Reports from Gaza's Health Ministry indicate that at least 41,182 Palestinians have died since the conflict reignited, with thousands more injured and displaced. Humanitarian agencies warn that the situation could deteriorate further as winter sets in, putting over 2 million residents at risk of severe humanitarian catastrophe.

Efforts to mediate a ceasefire, spearheaded by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, have witnessed limited progress. The proposed prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas remains stalled, and hostilities continue unabated. As diplomatic channels remain obstructed, the region inches closer to a prolonged and devastating conflict.

Prominent voices within Israel, including former officials and opposition leaders, echo similar sentiments, demanding an urgent resolution. They argue that the escalating violence serves no constructive purpose and only amplifies the suffering on both sides. Protesters continue to advocate for a strategic and humane approach to resolve the hostilities and secure the release of hostages.