Title: Fifteen days of war in the Middle East: a look back at the highlights of the conflict between Israel and Hamas
Introduction :
Since the outbreak of the conflict between Israel and Hamas two weeks ago, the Middle East has been plunged into a worrying spiral of violence. From the surprise attack by Hamas in Israel to the order to evacuate Gaza City, including international demonstrations and diplomatic negotiations, events have happened at a breakneck pace. In this article, we look back on the two weeks that marked this devastating conflict.
1. The Hamas attack in Israel (October 7):
On Saturday October 7, Hamas launched an attack on an unprecedented scale in Israel. Thousands of rockets were fired, hitting targets as far away as Tel Aviv and the outskirts of Jerusalem. Hamas fighters also infiltrated Israeli territory, attacking several towns, villages, kibbutz and military bases, and committing massacres of civilians.
2. The Israeli response and shelling of Gaza (October 8):
In response to the Hamas attack, Israel launched an unprecedented military response dubbed the “Iron Saber.” Massive airstrikes were deployed on the Gaza Strip, destroying buildings presented as Hamas command centers, but also numerous apartment buildings. Israel also imposed a complete siege on Gaza, depriving the population of goods essential to their survival.
3. International demonstrations of support (October 9):
The war in the Middle East has sparked reactions around the world, with demonstrations of support for both Israel and the Palestinians. In France, a rally in support of Israel took place in Paris, but pro-Palestinian demonstrations were banned due to the risk of disturbances to public order. Despite this, thousands of people expressed solidarity with the Palestinians.
4. Diplomatic negotiations (October 10-15):
Faced with the escalation of the conflict, intense diplomatic activity took place to try to find a solution. International representatives sought to deescalate the situation and end hostilities. Multiple meetings and discussions have taken place, but concrete results are still awaited.
5. The Gaza evacuation order (October 16):
Due to intensified Israeli bombing of Gaza, authorities issued an evacuation order for civilians in the city. This has led to a massive influx of people seeking to flee the fighting and destruction. The humanitarian situation in the region is becoming increasingly worrying.
Conclusion :
The last fortnight in the Middle East has been marked by an escalation of violence between Israel and Hamas. Attacks, responses, demonstrations and negotiations followed one another, leaving behind a tragic toll in terms of human lives and destruction. As hope for a peaceful solution appears to be fading, the international community has a responsibility to redouble its efforts to end this conflict and promote peace in the region.