The Agony Of War: How Does It End?
A call for resolution amidst unfathomable pain
Photo source: EuroNews
Like many of you, my heart is filled with horror, anger and sadness as I witness the unfolding brutality of the Israel-Hamas war on the world stage. The loss of life, the suffering of civilians, and the escalating tensions contribute to an overwhelming agony that reverberates across nations.
As the Israel-Hamas conflict rages on, I am acutely aware that mere words cannot encapsulate the depths of anguish it inflicts on both sides. I was even advised by loved ones against writing anything related to the war as the impact of this protracted conflict has extended far beyond the immediate battle zone, with communities worldwide being hugely divided, and the flames of animosity being fanned higher with each passing day.
But just last week, as we were discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with friends and as we anxiously watched the updated news and war videos in great sadness, one of them commented, “These actions are considered war crimes…”
A recent article from the Associated Press shed light on the alleged violations of international law in this conflict, with the United Nations expressing that it is “collecting evidence of war crimes by all sides”. The Human Rights Watch brings attention to severe breaches of humanitarian laws, including deliberate attacks on civilians, hostage-taking, use of human shields, and collective punishments. In the face of such violations, it is imperative to remind ourselves that violence can never be a solution.
An eye for an eye will leave the whole world blind.
- Gandhi
Photo source: Aljazeera
While the Israel-Hamas conflict has festered for decades and the intricate geopolitical landscape in the Middle East is far too complex to expect any peace anytime soon, these ongoing retaliatory actions and perpetuating violence will only deepen the wounds, fuel more anger and prolong the suffering on all sides.
Instead, we must shift our focus towards ending the suffering by addressing the heightening humanitarian crisis, de-escalating the conflict to prevent a wider regional war, and charting a path toward a resolution — no matter how impossible it seems. Governments’ leaders must engage in thoughtful introspection on how this war can conclude, envision an aligned outcome, and take the necessary steps to make it happen.
In a recent issue of the Economist, I came across this statement:
Israeli strategists must start thinking about how to create the conditions for life alongside the Palestinians, however remote that may seem today…the only way to eradicate Hamas is for Israel and its Arab allies to create stability — and, one day, peace.
Though I am uncertain of the precise path to accomplishing such a monumental task given the atrocities and persisting uncertainties, we must not dismiss the faint glimmer of hope it offers. It might take decades, but transcending the divisiveness and seeking a resolution where peace triumphs over the agony of war is the only way to forge a future where healing and reconciliation can prevail.