Uzair Ahmad

Today, the Gaza issue is no longer kept in the shadows. People throughout the world have been shaken by the pictures of families buried in debris, dead children wrapped in shrouds, and blasted homes. What appeared far away is now a conscious mirror. Gaza has become a storm that no leader can ignore, a test of whether politics will stand above humanity or bend before it.

The tide is turning. President Emmanuel Macron of France has taken the lead, saying that Israel's war goal of destroying Hamas is a myth. Instead, he presented a staged proposal that included humanitarian corridors, the release of prisoners, an immediate truce, recognition of Palestine, and even a UN-mandated force to secure Gaza. He rejected the absurdity of uprooting an entire population. His remarks held a map of action in addition to empathy.

Even Canada has abandoned its own customs and openly acknowledged the futility of the previous strategy of waiting for Israel to engage in two-state negotiations. Blockades, illegal settlements, and annexation votes have made waiting forever. Instead of being a gift to one side, Canada's recognition reminded both that peace cannot exist without justice. Additionally, the UK has relaxed its cautious quiet, which may be a sign of acknowledgment. These are significant steps. There are signs that the old system is disintegrating, and the stream is shifting.

However, words that lack anchoring float away. Recognition needs to be connected to actions that alter the actual situation. Macron’s agenda is important because it goes beyond words and links recognition to accountability, aid, and ceasefires. Not only does this put strain on Netanyahu's split administration, but it also puts pressure on Washington, where a rising number of people are refusing to remain silent about Gaza. In addition to being European, the tide is also rising within America.

The UN vote in support of Palestinian statehood demonstrated this change in numbers. Compared to 1947, when Israel was established with just thirty votes, the overwhelming support was a stark contrast. The planet is now tilting in the opposite direction. More voices are speaking out against Gaza being buried in debris and justifications, from the Secretary General denouncing settlements to European leaders recalling ambassadors.

However, fame is not the end of the world. The drift risks becoming symbolic without guarantees for humanitarian aid, accountability procedures, and punishment for illegal settlements. Morality is just a discourse if it is not enforced. Speeches are not enough to sustain Gaza.

More than just boats, the flotillas heading toward Israel are representations of a world unwilling to remain silent any longer. The UN votes are more than just a tally; they are an indication that the tide is turning against America and Israel. The issue of Gaza is no longer one of awareness. The world has had enough. The question is whether this tide will bring justice to the shore or disappear like many other waves.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of The Himalayan Research Institute Pakistan - (THRIP)

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Uzair Ahmad is a political science student at the University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.