July 31st, 2025 - Anger Over Starvation in Gaza Leaves Israel Facing Growing Isolation

As Israel's war in Gaza continues, Britain and France have announced plans to recognize Palestine as a state, a move driven by growing global outrage over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the UK has set a deadline of September for this recognition, contingent on Israel's willingness to agree to a ceasefire, while France made a similar pledge last week. These announcements reflect mounting pressure from voters and international allies who are increasingly appalled by reports of starvation and extreme deprivation in Gaza, where tens of thousands of Palestinians have died.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected these moves, claiming that reports of starvation are exaggerated and that Hamas must be destroyed. He also accused Western nations of rewarding Hamas for its attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed over 1,000 people and led to the abduction of about 250 others. Netanyahu’s stance has fueled global skepticism about Israel’s actions, especially as international opinion polls show rising disapproval of Israel’s military conduct.

For Israel, the growing criticism represents a shift in global sentiment, particularly among younger generations in the West. Daniel Levy, an expert on Israeli politics, pointed out that public outrage is increasingly directed at Israel’s treatment of Palestinians, with many now questioning whether Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Demonstrations, sometimes anti-Semitic in nature, have taken place across Europe and the U.S., with celebrities like Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande publicly advocating for a ceasefire. These shifts in public opinion are reflected in recent Pew polls, which show a sharp decline in favorable views of Israel in the U.S. and other countries.

The growing isolation of Israel comes as the country struggles with the ongoing war and its inability to end the conflict. Netanyahu has not presented a clear plan for Gaza’s future, particularly in relation to Hamas’s control of the region. As the war drags on, Netanyahu faces political pressure from far-right ministers in his coalition who oppose any concessions that might lead to a Palestinian state, making the idea of a ceasefire or diplomatic resolution increasingly difficult.

The U.S. has been slow to react to this diplomatic shift. While President Trump remains a staunch supporter of Israel, he has acknowledged the mounting global concerns over the war. Trump’s envoy was sent to Israel to investigate the chaotic food distribution system in Gaza, highlighting the growing international discomfort with Israel’s handling of the humanitarian crisis. With the war continuing and no clear end in sight, Israel risks further alienating its allies and becoming an international pariah.

The recognition of Palestine by Britain and France is seen by some analysts as a symbolic move, but one that has practical implications, especially as these nations are permanent members of the U.N. Security Council. If these two countries formally recognize Palestine, it would leave the U.S. isolated, as it would be the only Security Council member not to recognize the Palestinian state. For Israel, this growing international pressure may eventually force it to reconsider its strategy in Gaza, but with the government firmly opposed to concessions, a lasting peace remains elusive.

Word of the Day (Merriam-Webster) - Petulant (adj, PET-chuh-lunt) - Petulant describes a person who is angry and annoyed, or an attitude or behavior showing the emotions of such a person.

Example: I didn't appreciate being accused of acting like a petulant toddler.