Gaza War Causes More Divisions in Israel What You Need to Know

Post by : Priya

 Photo:Reuters

The ongoing war in Gaza has not only devastated the region with tragic loss of life and shattered infrastructure but has also deeply divided Israeli society in ways not seen before in recent decades. As the conflict intensifies in 2025, the scars it leaves extend well beyond the physical battlefield, tearing at the social and political fabric inside Israel. Understanding this internal division requires looking closely at the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, the diverse reactions and tensions within Israeli citizens, and the broader international ramifications that continue to shape this volatile conflict.

The Human Cost and Humanitarian Crisis

The Gaza war has resulted in one of the most severe humanitarian catastrophes in modern history. According to UN experts and human rights organizations, over 60,000 Palestinians have been killed and more than 150,000 wounded since the conflict escalated in late 2023. Entire cities in Gaza have been leveled by relentless Israeli airstrikes and military operations. Critical infrastructure — hospitals, schools, agricultural land, cultural sites — lie in ruins. Over 90 percent of Gaza’s homes have been damaged or destroyed, forcing millions into makeshift shelters or displacement camps. The blockade imposed by Israel has led to acute shortages of food, water, medical supplies, and electricity, exacerbating a crisis where starvation, disease, and desperation have become daily realities for Gazans.

This catastrophe has displaced nearly all of Gaza’s approximately 2.3 million inhabitants, with most civilians bearing the brunt of the war. Women and children have been particularly vulnerable, representing the majority of casualties. Medical facilities are overwhelmed and often targeted, making basic healthcare almost impossible to access. International humanitarian agencies are struggling to send aid due to blockades and ongoing hostilities. As a result, the population faces an urgent risk of famine and a complete collapse of social services.

The Toll on Israel: Social Divides and Security Concerns

The Gaza war’s immediate threat to Israeli civilians has been profound as well. Over 100,000 Israelis have been internally displaced due to rocket attacks and border skirmishes. Attacks from Hamas and other militant groups have caused casualties inside southern Israel, including civilian deaths and widespread fear.

This ongoing violence has polarized Israeli society. Many factions strongly support government measures to use military force to neutralize threats from Gaza and protect Israeli security. However, there are growing voices within Israel concerned about the humanitarian impact on Palestinians, questioning the long-term wisdom of a solely military approach. Public protests, debates, and political disagreements are increasingly prominent, showing a nation struggling with ethical dilemmas as well as practical security challenges.

This divide goes beyond political parties into grassroots social and religious communities, catalyzing tensions regarding identity, justice, and the future direction of Israeli policy. Calls for renewed peace talks compete with demands for harsh retaliation. The war has disrupted daily life – schools have closed, the economy is strained, and mental health concerns are rising due to fear and uncertainty. The conflict has also heightened social cleavage between Israeli Arabs and Jews, further complicating an already complex social landscape.

International and Regional Repercussions

The conflict reverberates far beyond Israel and Gaza. The intense fighting has drawn in international actors diplomatically and militarily. The United States continues to provide strong military and political support to Israel, often vetoing United Nations resolutions aimed at ceasefires. Meanwhile, Iran and allied groups across the Middle East openly support Hamas and other armed factions, escalating tensions regionally. Violence has spread to Lebanon and Syria, where Israel military operations persist against allied groups.

Globally, the Gaza war has sparked widespread protests, with people around the world strongly voicing both support for Palestinian rights and support for Israeli security. Unfortunately, this global polarization has also led to a disturbing rise in antisemitism and anti-Palestinian racism, fueling polarization in diaspora communities outside the conflict zone.

Human Rights and Legal Issues

Human rights organizations and international courts are actively investigating alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Both Israel and Hamas have faced accusations relating to their conduct during the war, including targeting civilians and use of unlawful tactics. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for top Israeli and Hamas leaders concerning actions during the conflict.

Such allegations add to the complexity of the conflict’s diplomacy and impact public opinion inside Israel, where some citizens feel strongly that their country’s military faces unfair condemnation, while others are concerned about morality and international standing.

The Path Forward: Urgency for Dialogue

The Gaza war has laid bare deep divisions inside Israel, not only about how to respond militarily but also regarding the ethical and humanitarian costs of prolonged violence. In this difficult moment, Israeli leaders face the challenge of balancing immediate security with a vision for long-term peace.

Experts warn that without inclusive dialogue, the divisions among Israeli society will deepen, potentially destabilizing the country’s democracy and social cohesion. The children growing up amid this war risk inheriting a legacy of trauma and hatred unless efforts are made toward reconciliation and justice.

International pressure continues to mount for a ceasefire and humanitarian relief, but any sustainable resolution will require addressing the root causes driving the conflict — including governance, rights, security, and mutual recognition.