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Situational Paper
Political and Military Implications of the Hamas-Israel Conflict
May 2024
Executive Summary
Key Takeaways
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, with over 34,000 lives lost, massive displacement affecting more than 85% of the population, and famine conditions gripping over a million people. Despite calls for a cease-fire and provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice, the conflict continues unabated, with Israel largely ignoring international legal obligations. The crisis has exposed the limitations of global institutions like the UN and UNSC, which have struggled to enforce meaningful action due to geopolitical dynamics, especially repeated vetoes by permanent members. The report underscores a deepening disregard for international humanitarian law and the urgent need for a unified global response to prevent further loss of life and uphold justice.
Policy Considerations
Pakistan must enhance its humanitarian response by leveraging its surplus wheat and deploying medical aid and personnel to Gaza, reinforcing its solidarity with the Palestinian people. Diplomatically, Pakistan should play an active role in international forums to advocate for an immediate cease-fire and urge compliance with the ICJ’s ruling. It should also push for the revival of the two-state solution framework to ensure long-term peace. Furthermore, the Palestine crisis offers strategic insight for Pakistan’s Kashmir policy, emphasizing the need for sustained international engagement, vigilance against regional threats, and consistent advocacy for self-determination and human rights in line with UN resolutions.
Author(s)
Ambassador Muhammad Haroon Shaukat (Retd)
Director Foreign Affairs, CASS Lahore
The Centre for Aerospace & Security Studies (CASS) was established in July 2021 to inform policymakers and the public about issues related to aerospace and security from an independent, non-partisan and future-centric analytical lens.