After 15 months of intense conflict in the Middle East, a tentative ceasefire went into effect on Sunday, with Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu largely achieving their objectives while conceding less than anticipated throughout the war.
Nimrod Novik, a former senior advisor to the late Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres, stated, “We lost the war on October 7. Everything after that was about restoring our confidence in Israel’s strength and security.” Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, declaring all objectives of the war accomplished, including the return of hostages, elimination of Hamas’ military capabilities, and ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.
The conflict began with Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, resulting in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and more than 250 hostages taken. Israel’s response led to the deaths of over 46,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to local authorities, and thousands more in Lebanon due to Israel’s campaign against Hezbollah. Around 90% of Gaza’s population has been displaced, with malnutrition and disease prevalent. The war has caused immense destruction and human suffering across the region.