Israeli support for Gaza war declines as anger grows

As Israel navigates a complex and violent phase of conflict in Gaza, a growing dissent is emerging within the country against the government's military actions. Key political figures and former military leaders have voiced concerns about the morality and effectiveness of the ongoing conflict, which initially garnered strong public support after the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas that killed approximately 1,200 Israelis. Recent statements from prominent Israeli politicians, including Yair Golan and Moshe Ya'alon, highlight a stark warning: if the current trajectory continues, Israel risks becoming an international pariah similar to apartheid-era South Africa. Activists and even families of the remaining hostages taken by Hamas are increasingly calling for an end to the military escalations and advocating for negotiations. Alon-Lee Green, a leader of an anti-war movement, has noted a visible awakening among sections of the Israeli public who are increasingly uncomfortable with the conduct of the war. This sentiment contrasts sharply with the hardline rhetoric from the government, which insists on a total victory over Hamas and the retrieval of hostages. However, polls show that public support for those aggressive military strategies has diminished significantly, with only about 25% in favor of expanding military operations into Gaza. The situation complicates further due to external threats, particularly from Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who have indicated potential repercussions if Israel proceeds with its plans to invade Gaza. Recent missile attacks near Israeli airports have served as stark warnings about the implications of continued military action. The Houthis have made it clear that they could initiate an air blockade against Israel should operations in Gaza escalate, which poses a grave risk to the country's economy. Many voices within the Israeli society are calling for a reassessment of national priorities as despair and trauma take hold. Activists are demanding peace negotiations, echoing sentiments that maintaining military action could ultimately lead to greater harm than good, making it imperative for the Israeli government to consider the long-term consequences of their current military objectives. These tensions reflect a deeply divided public perception as families grieve the consequences of war while advocating for a path toward lasting peace, rather than further violence and conflict.