Early Morning Attack
In the early hours of October 7, 2023, Hamas gunmen infiltrated Kibbutz Sufa, located near Gaza. Bernard Cowan, a British-Israeli grandfather, stepped out of his family’s safe room. His brother explained Cowan’s discomfort with enclosed spaces. Meanwhile, his wife Margaret remained inside. A gunman noticed Cowan through a window, fired twice, and Cowan collapsed. The gunmen continued their attack, wreaking havoc in the kibbutz, shooting at homes and vehicles. Inside another house, the camera recorded a phone ringing on a kitchen table.
National Tragedy
The attack resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people. This tragic number is significant in proportion to Israel’s population size. It is a profound national trauma, akin in proportion to the 9/11 attacks in the United States. America’s 9/11 led to 2,977 deaths, but a similar attack in America, proportional to October 7, would result in about 40,000 fatalities.
Calculated Offense
Dov Waxman, an expert on Israel at UCLA, believes Hamas filmed and shared the atrocities for strategic reasons. Their intentions might align with Osama bin Laden’s tactics during 9/11. A weaker force can provoke a powerful adversary to react in ways that alter the political landscape.
Immediate Consequences
The attacks did not lead to the destruction of Israel, but Hamas suffered significant losses. Many senior leaders were killed, and their military capacities were diminished. Gaza was subjected to a severe Israeli assault, leading to a substantial humanitarian crisis. Tens of thousands of innocent lives were lost, displacing a significant portion of the population.
Political Effects
The aftermath shifted international politics. The Palestinian cause became prominent globally. Israel’s international standing fell sharply, especially among young Americans. Opposition to U.S. support for Israel grew on both sides of the political spectrum.
Hamas’ Objectives
Documents now held by Israel reveal Hamas’s explicit goal of destroying the state and ensuring the liberation of Palestine. They anticipated regional allies would mobilize in response to Israel’s potential collapse. Yet, as history unfolded, their strategy did not entirely realize these ambitions.
Insights from Experts
Communication with Hamas officials revealed they underestimated the initial success of their attack. The lack of an Israeli military presence shocked them. Perspectives like those from Israeli peace activist Gershon Baskin suggest Hamas misjudged the broader impact within the region.
Human and Economic Toll
Gaza endured tremendous losses, with around 75,000 Palestinians killed. Infrastructure suffered damages totaling nearly $30 billion, primarily in housing. Casualties continued after initial conflicts, as structural damage led to further fatalities.
Shifting Sentiments
Public opinion regarding Israel has shifted over the years. Americans’ favorable views of Israel dropped significantly, indicating a decline in Israel’s soft power and international reputation. These alterations reflect broader changes in global perception.
U.S.-Israel Relations
Questions about the U.S.-Israel relationship have emerged among younger generations in America. This change might challenge long-standing bipartisan support. The future leadership may continue to reevaluate the nature of this alliance.
Divided Views
Skepticism on Israel’s military support is becoming mainstream in Democratic circles. On the Republican side, some young conservatives question the rationale behind prioritizing Israel in foreign policy. These evolving perspectives may reshape future policies.
Photography by Hassan Salem/Middle East Images/AFP/Getty
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