On May 26, 2025, international pressure intensified on Israel’s government amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, 600 days after the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. Protests in Cyprus and elsewhere demanded action as famine threats loomed in Gaza. A US-proposed 60-day ceasefire, including a hostage-prisoner swap, gained Hamas’s approval but was rejected by Israel, deepening diplomatic rifts. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces domestic divisions, with critics accusing him of prioritizing political survival over peace.
The conflict’s economic toll is significant, disrupting regional stability and trade routes. Posts on X highlight global concern, with Foreign Policy’s World Brief noting minimal progress in peace efforts. While Israel defends its actions as necessary for security, international critics argue they exacerbate humanitarian crises. The situation risks further isolating Israel diplomatically, with potential sanctions looming. The US’s role as a mediator is under scrutiny, as its support for Israel clashes with global calls for de-escalation.