The heat of conflict intensified in the Gaza Strip when Wednesday brought a torrent of Israeli military strikes, claiming the lives of at least 50 Palestinians, according to local health authorities.
The escalation of violence coincides with President Donald Trump’s visit to the Middle East, a trip that many Palestinians hoped might exert some pressure to simmer down the boiling pot of unrest. But sometimes, hope is like a mirage in the desert heat.
The Israeli airstrikes targeted homes in the Jabalia area of northern Gaza, leaving women and children among the casualties. Hamas military leader, Mohammad Sinwar, is believed to be among those killed in a strike on a command and control bunker, according to Israeli press reports.
Let’s consider this perspective for a moment. As the bulldozers moved into the strike area at the European Hospital, another Israeli airstrike took place, injuring several. This was shortly after the Iranian-backed militant group, Islamic Jihad, allied with Hamas, fired rockets toward Israel.
We have all seen this pattern before, an eye for an eye, or a tit for tat. But what we know for certain is the cycle of violence leaves no winners, only victims.
Amidst the turmoil and tumult, there are glimmers of hope. Before Trump’s visit, Hamas released Edan Alexander, the last known American hostage, a gesture that suggests the potential for dialogue. However, the road to peace is often rocky and filled with potholes.
The Israeli invasion of Gaza, a reaction to the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel communities, has left more than 52,900 Palestinians dead and brought the enclave’s population of 2.3 million to the edge of famine.
The struggle for peace continues. But as we ponder the future, we should remember the timeless wisdom of the Lone Star State – if we keep stoking the fire, we’re bound to get burned. It’s time to douse the flames of conflict, for the sake of every man, woman, and child in the region.