Recent Israel-Palestine Conflict- Tracing the Start of the Most Recent Tensions

When did the most recent Israel-Palestine conflict start?

The most recent Israel-Palestine conflict, often referred to as the Gaza Strip conflict or the 2021 Israel-Palestine conflict, began on May 10, 2021. This conflict escalated following a series of escalations in tensions between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas, which governs the Gaza Strip. The situation was further complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which had a significant impact on the ability of both sides to effectively manage the conflict.

The immediate trigger for the conflict was a series of protests in Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, which is considered a holy site for both Muslims and Jews. The protests were sparked by the Israeli government’s decision to allow Jewish worshippers to access the compound for the first time in decades during the Jewish holiday of Passover. This move was met with widespread anger and violence from Palestinians, leading to clashes with Israeli security forces.

As tensions continued to rise, both Israel and Hamas engaged in a series of rocket attacks and military operations. Israel responded with a significant military operation in the Gaza Strip, aimed at stopping the rocket fire. The operation, codenamed “Operation Guardian of the Walls,” involved ground, air, and naval forces and resulted in a high number of casualties on both sides.

The conflict resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Palestinians, including many civilians, and Israeli soldiers. It also caused widespread destruction in the Gaza Strip, with hospitals, schools, and homes being damaged or destroyed. The situation in Gaza was further exacerbated by the lack of access to medical supplies and humanitarian aid, as well as the restrictions on movement imposed by both Israeli and Egyptian authorities.

The international community, including the United States, the European Union, and the United Nations, called for an immediate ceasefire and expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Despite these calls, the conflict continued for several weeks before a ceasefire was finally agreed upon on May 21, 2021.

The recent Israel-Palestine conflict has once again highlighted the deep-seated tensions and lack of progress in the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians. It has also underscored the need for a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the conflict, which must address the root causes of the conflict and ensure the security and well-being of both Israelis and Palestinians.