Israel began its war on Gaza in response to Hamas’s attack that killed over 1,200 people, the majority of whom were civilians, two years ago today. Since then, most estimates put the number of casualties in Gaza at 65,000, while others place it significantly higher. Israel’s refusal to allow humanitarian aid workers and journalists to move freely within the territory has made confirming deaths impossible. According to reports, famine is widespread and only fourteen hospitals within the strip remain functional.

In the two years since the war began, Israel has attacked Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Qatar, all with American support. Prior to October 7, 2023, the United States aimed to normalize relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors, chief among them Saudi Arabia. But Israel’s attempt to dominate the region and its genocide of the Palestinians have made normalization impossible, at least in the immediate future.

While the United States remains steadfast in its support for Israel, a global movement in solidarity with the Palestinians has grown during this period. This has forced countries like Britain, France, and Canada, which have historically been staunch defenders of Israel, to recognize a Palestinian state. Meanwhile, outrage at the way that Israel has conducted its war has forced Donald Trump to pressure it into accepting a ceasefire — the closest the United States has come to doing so since the war began.