Ending the Israel-Hamas War

The Israel-Hamas war of 2025 has become a central issue in global politics. It has caused an enormous humanitarian crisis in Gaza, intensified political tensions, and revived international efforts to resolve the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict.

For SSC aspirants, this topic is essential for General Awareness, Current Affairs, and International Relations. Understanding the timeline, causes, and international response to the Israel-Hamas war is crucial for exam success.

Context of the Israel-Hamas War & 2025 UN Conference

The Israel-Hamas war escalated in early 2025 following intensified IDF operations in Gaza, continued Hamas rocket attacks, and worsening Gaza civilian casualties. The situation led to famine and limited access to basic resources, with the Gaza Health Ministry reporting over 60,000 Palestinian deaths.

To address this crisis, the United Nations organized a high-level international conference in New York, aimed at resolving the Israel-Hamas war through diplomatic means.

What Is the New York Declaration?

One major outcome of the UN conference was the New York Declaration, a proposed roadmap to end the Israel-Hamas war and bring peace to the region.

Key Points of the Declaration:

• Establishment of a demilitarised, independent Palestinian state.

• Formation of a transitional administrative committee under the Palestinian Authority post-ceasefire.

• Deployment of a UN peacekeeping mission in Gaza to monitor the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

• Protection of civilians and stabilization of affected areas.

The declaration reflects a broad international consensus for a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Hamas war and long-term regional integration.

International Response to the Israel-Hamas War

The declaration was endorsed by France, Saudi Arabia, the European Union, the Arab League, and 15 other nations. Saudi Arabia urged all 193 UN member states to support the plan ahead of the 80th UN General Assembly session.

France and the United Kingdom pledged to recognise the state of Palestine, a notable policy shift. However, the UK’s recognition is conditional on Israel entering into ceasefire talks within eight weeks.

In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu firmly rejected the two-state solution, citing national security concerns. The United States also boycotted the meeting, calling it unproductive and ill-timed.

This highlights a divide among global powers over the resolution of the Israel-Hamas war.

Condemnation of Violence on Both Sides

For the first time, Arab nations condemned Hamas attacks on Israeli civilians during the October 2023 incident, which killed around 1,200 people. Simultaneously, the declaration condemned Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, which have caused significant destruction and suffering.

These dual condemnations highlight the complex humanitarian and political issues at the heart of the Israel-Hamas war.

How Did the Israel-Hamas War Start in 2025?

The roots of the Israel-Hamas war lie in repeated clashes in Gaza and the West Bank from late 2023 to early 2025.

Key triggers include:

• Hamas rocket attacks on Israeli cities

• Israel’s ground invasion of Gaza

• Expansion of illegal settlements in the West Bank

• Rising tensions during religious events

This marks one of the deadliest phases in the history of the Hamas-Israel conflict.

Challenges Ahead

Several major challenges threaten the success of the New York Declaration:

• Israel’s rejection of the two-state plan

• Lack of participation by key stakeholders like the U.S. and Israel

• Illegal Israeli settlements disrupting peace efforts

• Need for effective implementation of the UN Gaza peacekeeping plan

While Egypt continues ceasefire mediation, full cooperation from Israel and Palestine is vital for any long-term solution to the Israel-Hamas war.

Ceasefire Talks and the Road to Peace

The path forward involves:

• Securing a sustainable ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas

• Enabling the Palestinian Authority to govern a demilitarised state

• Implementing the UN response to the Gaza war

• Addressing human rights violations on both sides

The success of these efforts would mark a turning point in the Israel-Hamas war, potentially ending decades of instability in the Middle East war zone.

Why the Israel-Hamas War Matters for SSC Exams

For SSC exams like CGL, CHSL, MTS, and others, the Israel-Hamas war is highly relevant under:

• Current Affairs

• International Relations

• World Organisations (UN, Arab League, EU)

Likely SSC Exam Questions:

1. What is the New York Declaration?

2. Which countries supported the UN plan during the Israel-Hamas war?

3. What were the humanitarian consequences of the Gaza war?

4. Who opposed the two-state solution in 2025?

Summary Table

Final Thoughts

The Israel-Hamas war marks a critical turning point in the history of the Middle East, with devastating human, political, and regional consequences.

The New York Declaration offers a rare and comprehensive plan aimed at achieving a sustainable ceasefire and establishing a demilitarised Palestinian state alongside Israel. While the declaration has gained broad international support, its success hinges on cooperation from both the Israeli and Palestinian leadership, as well as active international involvement.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, marked by famine and mass civilian casualties, underscores the urgency for a diplomatic resolution.

Ultimately, the world stands at a crossroads between continued conflict and the real possibility of peaceful coexistence. The choices made in the coming weeks will shape not only the future of Israel and Palestine but also the stability of the entire region.