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ONLiNE UPSC
The Gaza conflict that erupted in October 2023 has become a focal point of international concern. The situation escalated dramatically when Hamas initiated a large-scale assault on Israel on October 7, killing approximately 1,200 individuals and taking hostages. This prompted Israel to respond with extensive military operations, including airstrikes in Gaza, leading to a significant intensification of hostilities.
As the conflict continues, reports indicate that around 41,870 Palestinians have lost their lives, while 1,400 Israelis have died. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated drastically, with nearly the entire population of Gaza—estimated at 2.4 million—displaced due to the ongoing violence.
The conflict in Gaza has garnered significant attention from global powers. The United States has shown support for Israel's right to self-defense, while nations like Iran and Syria have condemned Israel's military actions. Iran's retaliation has included missile strikes aimed at Israeli targets, particularly in response to the deaths of allies such as Hezbollah leaders.
This conflict has heightened tensions across the Middle East, with numerous countries expressing outrage. The potential for further destabilization is significant, impacting diplomatic relations and economic cooperation, especially in critical sectors like oil production and trade routes.
The humanitarian fallout from the conflict is severe. With 2.4 million people displaced, essential infrastructure and services have been devastated. Access to clean water, food, and medical supplies is critically limited, and the high civilian death toll disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including women and children.
The Israel-Palestine conflict is deeply rooted in history, involving over a century of disputes related to land, national identity, and sovereignty. Key issues include the status of Jerusalem, the expansion of Israeli settlements, and the failures of previous peace negotiations, all of which complicate the path to resolution.
The conflict is also straining Israel's economy, particularly due to increased military expenditures, such as maintaining the Iron Dome air defense system. Furthermore, ongoing violence threatens to disrupt crucial global trade routes, especially around the Suez Canal, potentially affecting international markets.
The global response to the conflict has been mixed. While Western powers, notably the U.S., have largely supported Israel’s military actions, many human rights organizations and Arab nations have called for a ceasefire, criticizing the humanitarian impact of Israel's response on Gaza's civilian population.
Q1. What initiated the conflict in Gaza in October 2023?
Answer: The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a significant attack on Israel, resulting in substantial casualties and hostages.
Q2. How many casualties have occurred in the ongoing Gaza conflict?
Answer: Approximately 41,870 Palestinians and 1,400 Israelis have lost their lives since the conflict escalated in October 2023.
Q3. What role do global powers play in the Gaza conflict?
Answer: Global powers have taken sides, with the U.S. supporting Israel's defense while countries like Iran condemn the military actions and retaliate against Israeli targets.
Q4. What are the humanitarian impacts of the Gaza conflict?
Answer: The conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, displacing 2.4 million people and severely affecting access to basic needs like water and medical care.
Q5. How does the Gaza conflict affect global economic relations?
Answer: The conflict impacts Israel's economy and threatens to disrupt vital global trade routes, especially affecting oil supply chains and international market stability.
Question 1: What event triggered the Gaza conflict in October 2023?
A) A peace agreement
B) A Hamas assault
C) An economic summit
D) A ceasefire announcement
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: How many Palestinians have reportedly died in the ongoing conflict?
A) 1,400
B) 20,000
C) 41,870
D) 50,000
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: Which country has been a significant supporter of Israel during the conflict?
A) Iran
B) Russia
C) United States
D) China
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What is one major humanitarian issue arising from the Gaza conflict?
A) Increased trade
B) Displacement of civilians
C) Enhanced security
D) International tourism
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What has been a criticism from human rights organizations regarding the conflict?
A) Support for Israel
B) Ceasefire demands
C) Military funding
D) Economic sanctions
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: Which area is primarily affected by the humanitarian crisis in the conflict?
A) West Bank
B) Gaza Strip
C) Jerusalem
D) Sinai Peninsula
Correct Answer: B
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