Within Israel, political and ideological divisions remain stark. On one end are ultra-nationalist and religious factions advocating continued militarization and territorial control as essential to national security. On the other, centrist and left-leaning groups warn that such policies undermine Israel’s moral legitimacy and international standing.

The Fragmented Palestinian Political Landscape

Palestinian politics are similarly fractured, primarily between Hamas, the Palestinian Authority and Palestine Liberation Organization each pursuing different strategies for national aspirations.

The 2007 differences between Hamas and the PA entrenched a political divide between Gaza and the West Bank, weakening the broader national movement. Many Palestinians today express frustration with both leaderships, disillusioned by the lack of unity and the stagnation of peace efforts.

Global Perceptions and Competing Narratives

Globally perceptions of the conflict remain polarized. Though a large majority in international community have already recognised Palestine as a sovereign state and emphasised the suffering of Palestinian people and call for accountability in Israel’s military actions, while a few others stress Israel’s right to self-defense, shaped by its history of persecution and persistent security threats.

Across much of Muslim world, Israel’s territorial policies are often viewed as part of a broader “Greater Israel” strategy an expansion beyond internationally recognized borders.

Renewed Diplomatic Momentum

Amid these tensions, renewed diplomatic efforts have emerged. Following the announcement of a preliminary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, France hosted a high-level conference in Paris with foreign ministers from European, Arab and Muslim-majority nations. The meeting sought to revive the long stalled two state solution outlining a political roadmap for Gaza’s future governance.

President Macron emphasized the creation of a “temporary governance structure for Gaza” as an initial step toward Palestinian self-determination. This initiative follows the recognition of Palestine by ten additional countries at United Nations on 22 september signaling growing international support for renewed negotiations.

Together, these diplomatic efforts, shifting political dynamics and renewed international consensus may mark the beginning of a transformative chapter in the long quest to achieve lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.