In September 2023, a banner reading “Yes to two states” was displayed at a demonstration in Tel Aviv. However, the demand was not for a solution to resolve the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians as it would have been interpreted in the past. Instead, it was a call for the coexistence of Israel and Judea in response to the internal division caused by the conservative and religious government.
The recent armed infiltration of Hamas into southern Israel resulted in 1,200 deaths and further complicated an already critical situation in the region. The attack also derailed the judicial reform plan proposed by the government, leading to a state of war. As Israel celebrated its 76th anniversary with 9.9 million inhabitants, including a significant percentage of children under 14 years old, tensions rose with neighboring countries and the international community due to ongoing diplomatic challenges.
The conflict with Hamas and kidnappings of individuals in Gaza continue to cast a shadow over Israel’s anniversary celebrations. While families of kidnapped individuals call for a truce agreement to ensure their safe return, the prolonged war strains relations between Israel and neighboring countries. The lack of a clear strategy and ongoing internal divisions within Israeli cabinet have prolonged the conflict, causing further suffering and casualties. Despite efforts to end the war and secure release of kidnapped individuals, uncertainty remains for Israel as it enters its 77th year while facing diplomatic challenges with United States government whose tensions are rising as conflict continues without clear strategy or unity within Israeli cabinet.
