In recent days, global leaders have been closely monitoring the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally declared a state of war on Hamas, setting the stage for a large-scale military operation in response to Hamas’ multifront attack. The situation is dire, with both sides suffering significant casualties.
Hamas initiated a widespread assault on Israel, known as “Operation Al-Aqsa Storm,” marking the most substantial attack on Israel since the Yom Kippur War in 1973. Hamas militants infiltrated Israeli territory through land, air, and sea, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake.
In retaliation, Israel launched “Operation Swords of Iron,” targeting suspected Hamas and Islamic Jihad locations in Gaza. Simultaneously, Israel imposed a “complete siege” on Gaza, home to 2.3 million people, by cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water supplies.
The conflict has tragically claimed thousands of lives, with Israel reporting over 1,200 fatalities and 2,900 injuries. In Gaza, at least 1,354 people have been killed, and over 6,000 have been injured, according to the Palestinian Health Authority.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude for international support and characterized Hamas’ attack as a “historic mistake.” He pledged to exact a price that would be remembered by Israel’s adversaries for decades to come.
African leaders have also reacted to the conflict, although their responses highlight divisions on the root causes and blame for the crisis. Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed condolences to the families of Israelis and Palestinians who lost their lives and called for restraint to prevent further loss of life.
African Union (AU) Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed “utmost concern” over the outbreak of violence and emphasized the failure of long-term international efforts to resolve the crisis. He reiterated the importance of the Palestinian people’s right to an independent and sovereign state.
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI called for an emergency meeting of the Arab League Council to address the deteriorating situation and expressed deep concern while condemning attacks against civilians.
Algeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed support for Palestine and decried the “barbaric Zionist aggression.” Neighboring Tunisia witnessed national protests in support of Palestine, prompting the U.S. Embassy in Tunis to close as a precaution.
Kenya’s President William Ruto condemned terrorism by Hamas, standing in solidarity with Israel. Kenya called for de-escalation of violence in the complex Israel-Palestine context.
South Africa called for an end to the violence and emphasized the urgent need for a credible peace process. The government urged a return to talks on a two-state solution and offered mediation assistance.
Nigeria called for a ceasefire through dialogue and expressed deep concern over the cycle of violence that disproportionately affects civilian populations.
In this complex and fluid situation, international leaders are working to address the crisis and promote peace. The world watches with hope for a swift resolution to this tragic conflict.
