Palestine in ruins: Gaza war enters second year with no peace in sight

Today, October 7, 2024, marks the one-year anniversary of the ongoing Israeli aggression and ground and air attacks in Gaza, resulting in the killing of nearly 42,000 Palestinians and injuring over 100,000 people.

The international community, including the United Nations and the United States, has been criticised for its inaction, failing to stop the Israeli attacks in the besieged enclave.

The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas carried out an operation in Israel, killing 1,200 people, including 350 Israeli soldiers, and taking 250 hostages.

In response, Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Gaza and initiated a ground operation, which continues to this day.

Experts estimate that the actual number of killed may be significantly higher, potentially exceeding 92,000, due to thousands of people buried under rubble.

The Gaza health system has been severely impacted, with hospitals constantly bombed, making basic medical care for women and children increasingly difficult.

Global protests have been held in Pakistan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other Muslim countries, condemning the Zionist forces' atrocities.

Demonstrations in American universities, particularly at Columbia University, drew international attention, resulting in over 2,000 student arrests and significant property damage.

Despite ceasefire efforts mediated by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, Israel has continued its bombing campaign. 

The International Court of Justice declared Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories illegal in July, ordering an immediate end to fighting and attacks. 

However, Israeli forces have persisted in their aggression.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains committed to victory.

"Israel will win because our forces are fighting in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon and are ready to attack Iran," he said.

On the other hand, Hamas has released a video message praising its October 7 attack on Israel.

"The crossing of the glorious 7th of October shattered the illusions the enemy had created for itself, convincing the world and the region of its supposed superiority and capabilities," Khalil Al-Hayya, a Qatar-based Hamas member, said.

"All of Palestine, particularly Gaza, and our Palestinian people are writing a new history with their resistance, blood, and steadfastness," he noted.

The war has also taken a significant toll on Israel, with 726 soldiers killed and 4,576 injured. 

The financial costs are substantial, with estimates suggesting a total of 100 billion shekels ($26.3 billion) spent on the war since August, potentially rising to 250 billion shekels by the end of 2025.

Millions worldwide have marched against Israeli aggression, demanding an immediate ceasefire and aid for oppressed Palestinians.