Ankara:The three-year aftermath of Israel's war on Gaza has significantly influenced Israeli society, political discussions, and international relationships. Former Israeli diplomat Alon Liel highlighted that the war has intensified nationalistic attitudes toward Palestinians, distancing peace from mainstream politics, with effects potentially outlasting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration.
According to Anadolu Agency, The conflict has further entrenched skepticism about peace prospects with Palestinians. A Pew Research Center report revealed only 17% of Israelis believe in the possibility of peaceful coexistence with an independent Palestinian state, while 56% deem it impossible. Liel noted that this pessimism limits the chances of a negotiated peace settlement regardless of future governments.
Israel's societal shift to the right predates the Gaza conflict but has been reinforced by it. An Israel Democracy Institute survey showed that 62% of Israelis identified with the right in 2022. Political divisions have deepened, particularly around a proposed judicial overhaul, leading to mass protests.
Regionally, the conflict has expanded beyond Gaza, involving Israel in renewed confrontations with Hezbollah in Lebanon and direct engagements with Iran. Israeli military operations have also reached southern Lebanon. A recent poll indicated that 82% of Israelis supported these operations against Iran. Liel expressed concerns that the rightward trend might sustain regional confrontations.
The ongoing tensions have heightened pressure on political and cultural dissent. The election campaign highlighted issues of Palestinian political participation, with legal challenges faced by Palestinian parties. Human Rights Watch reported deteriorating conditions for Gazan workers detained in Israel after October 2023. Violence against Christian communities in Israel and the occupied East Jerusalem has also been documented.
The repercussions of the war have extended to the West Bank, where increased violence from Israeli occupiers and military operations have displaced many Palestinians. The UN reported over 1,600 attacks by Israeli occupiers affecting Palestinian communities.
The conflict has also prompted increased emigration of young, educated Israelis, raising concerns about long-term demographic and economic impacts. From 2009 to 2024, the number of emigrants rose sharply, with 2024 seeing the lowest number of returnees in recent years.
Internationally, Israel's image has suffered, with unfavorable views on the rise in countries like Spain, Germany, and Canada. A survey found that a majority of Israelis believe their country's international standing has deteriorated. Liel remarked on the weakened perception of Israel's democratic image and its commitment to peace.