7 June 2024: As the Israel-Hamas war enters its 230th day, the death toll of Palestinians has reached approximately 40,000. Despite international legal pressures, such as the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrants and the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) orders to halt the Rafah offensive, Israel continues its military operations with impunity, including bombings on refugee camps near the Egypt border.
A recent incident involved the death of an Egyptian soldier during an exchange of fire, which is currently under investigation by the Egyptian military. Israel’s military strategy appears to be shifting towards the Philadelphia corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border, amid accusations that Hamas is receiving military supplies from Egypt.
The geopolitical situation is further complicated by Egypt’s refusal to accept displaced Palestinians, despite financial aid from the US-controlled International Monetary Fund (IMF). Meanwhile, Pakistan is also seeking an IMF bailout, raising questions about its strategic alliances, particularly with China.
Recent Israeli military actions have included bombing refugee camps and engaging in intense urban combat, further escalating tensions. Concerns are mounting that Israel may target Egypt, potentially using allegations of Hamas tunnels as justification for further incursions.
The response from Muslim-majority nations such as Egypt, Jordan, Türkiye, UAE, and Saudi Arabia has been largely muted. Türkiye’s President Erdogan has warned that his country could be Israel’s next target, despite increased military cooperation with the US.
Protests against Israel’s actions have erupted across Europe and the US, particularly in academic institutions. Despite these demonstrations, there has been little response from Arab nations, with Iran being the notable exception, although its influence has been hampered following the demise of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash.
Looking ahead, there are fears that Israel might target Masjid Al-Aqsa, a site of immense religious significance in Islam. Haider Abbas, a former UP State Information Commissioner and writer on international politics, believes any such attack could be framed as a defense against Hamas or Hezbollah, with anticipated support from US political figures, including President Biden.
The potential consequences of such actions could trigger widespread unrest among Muslim populations globally. Abbas concludes by questioning whether international recognition of Palestine by countries like Norway, Ireland, Spain, and Slovenia will have any real impact if the violence continues unchecked.
