The ceasefire in Gaza has officially collapsed following renewed Israeli airstrikes after negotiations with Hamas broke down. Israel’s focus is on hostages as tensions rise, while the U.S. conducts airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen as a strategy against Iran, complicating prospects for a renewed nuclear deal amid Iran’s internal struggles.
Attention has recently turned towards the ceasefire in Gaza, which appeared to have unraveled despite previous negotiations between the involved parties. Following the collapse of discussions with Hamas, Israel halted humanitarian aid in early March and initiated extensive airstrikes on March 17, resulting in over 400 fatalities. This aggressive response has led to speculation about the future of peace in the region, linking it to ongoing tensions with Iran.
The recent Israeli airstrikes have signified the definitive end of the ceasefire that had paused hostilities with Gaza. With the first phase concluding on March 1, exchanges of hostages for Palestinian detainees did not lead to a second phase. Prime Minister Netanyahu, influenced by hard-right factions and public demands for the return of hostages, chose a military approach, paving the way for renewed aerial assaults and additional ground attacks.
Currently, there is no comprehensive long-term strategy for Gaza. Netanyahu appears mainly focused on securing the hostages’ safe return as a political mechanism to navigate his ongoing bribery trial and appease hardline supporters. The singular focus has resulted in potential shifts in strategy regarding the West Bank, where Israel’s military presence has intensified amid increasing violence.
Former President Trump had initially framed the ceasefire in Gaza as a significant accomplishment. However, after its breakdown, he has redirected his narrative, centering his blame on Hamas. His approach has shifted to portraying himself as a strong leader unafraid to engage in military actions, capitalizing on the chaotic political landscape to maintain his public image.
In response to Iranian aggression and threats to shipping routes in the Red Sea, the U.S. has carried out airstrikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen, which analysts view as a multifaceted strategy to convey strength against Iran. Trump’s administration appears to use these actions to rally public support, presenting himself alternately as a peacemaker and a hardliner, depending on the political climate.
Iran remains in a weakened position due to internal economic turmoil and regional setbacks, which limits their immediate response to U.S. airstrikes. The Iranian economy is facing significant challenges, with rampant inflation and rising unemployment exacerbating public dissatisfaction. Amidst these struggles, Iranian leadership must navigate both domestic unrest and external military pressures without succumbing to adversarial negotiations.
The current tensions complicate the potential for a renewed nuclear deal with Iran. Conservatives within the Trump administration advocate using military tactics to force negotiations, yet the Iranian leadership, particularly Khamenei, has expressed reluctance to engage under such hostile conditions. Past experiences indicate that negotiations flourish under conditions of mutual respect rather than aggression, highlighting a contrasting approach than what is presently pursued by the U.S. government.
In conclusion, the collapse of the Gaza ceasefire reflects deep-rooted tensions and political pressures that have hindered long-term peace efforts. Netanyahu’s military responses are primarily influenced by domestic political calculations, while Trump’s aggressive stance towards Iran reveals a complex interplay of regional power dynamics. Iran, facing substantial internal difficulties, continues to resist U.S. pressure, complicating any future negotiations regarding its nuclear program. Thus, the situation remains volatile and uncertain, with multiple factions vying for influence.
Original Source: theconversation.com
