ART ARGENTUM ANALYSIS

Impact of the US-Israel War on Gaza

Analysis of the US-Israel war's impact on Gaza, based on 'US–Israel war with Iran: What is the impact on Gaza?' | Chatham House.

2026-05-19Chatham HouseUS–Israel war with Iran: What is the impact on Gaza?
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SUMMARY

The ongoing conflict involving Iran has diverted attention from Gaza, exacerbating humanitarian crises and reducing both international and regional focus on the area. Despite a ceasefire declared seven months ago, military actions persist, resulting in over 850 Palestinian fatalities, while humanitarian aid remains inadequate due to Israeli restrictions.

Israeli control now extends to approximately 60 to 64 percent of the Gaza Strip, confining the majority of the Palestinian population to less than 40 percent of the territory still under Hamas control. The establishment of new Israeli military outposts and infrastructure in Gaza suggests a long-term presence with no immediate plans for withdrawal.

The ongoing war may weaken Hamas's ties with Iran, impacting its financial and military support as well as its internal leadership during an election period. While the conflict has shifted focus away from Gaza, it has also reduced Hamas's significance in future negotiations, as Israel and the U.S. make decisions regarding Gaza without its involvement.

The ongoing election season in Israel is likely to prioritize domestic issues, diverting attention from urgent concerns related to Gaza. The Trump administration appears to accept a fragmented and intermittently violent Gaza as a reality, focusing more on domestic political considerations than on foreign policy.

The U.S. administration is considering engaging Hamas politically, which Israel has firmly rejected. The inability of mediators, including the U.S., to align Israel's and Hamas's differing visions for Gaza has hindered efforts for ceasefires and peace agreements.

A unified and strategic approach among international players, including Arab nations, is crucial for effectively addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Concerns are raised regarding the narrative of declining international law, emphasizing the necessity for all parties to actively uphold and practice these legal standards.

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US–Israel war with Iran: What is the impact on Gaza?
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US–Israel war with Iran: What is the impact on Gaza?
chatham_house • 2026-05-19 09:22:58 UTC
The ongoing conflict involving Iran has significantly diverted attention from Gaza, worsening humanitarian conditions and limiting international focus. Despite a ceasefire declared seven months ago, military actions cont…
STANCE
STANCE MAP
Proponents of US engagement with Hamas
  • Advocate for political engagement with Hamas to stabilize Gaza
  • Highlight the need for humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts
Opponents of US engagement with Hamas
  • Reject any political recognition of Hamas due to its militant activities
  • Emphasize the need for disarmament before any negotiations
Neutral / Shared
  • Acknowledge the complex dynamics of regional politics affecting Gaza
  • Recognize the humanitarian crisis as a critical issue needing urgent attention
FULL
00:00–05:00
The ongoing conflict involving Iran has significantly diverted attention from Gaza, worsening humanitarian conditions and limiting international focus. Despite a ceasefire declared seven months ago, military actions continue, resulting in over 850 Palestinian fatalities and inadequate humanitarian aid due to Israeli restrictions.
  • The ongoing conflict involving Iran has diverted attention from Gaza, exacerbating humanitarian crises and reducing both international and regional focus on the area
  • Despite a ceasefire declared seven months ago, military actions persist, resulting in over 850 Palestinian fatalities, while humanitarian aid remains inadequate due to Israeli restrictions
  • Progress on the ceasefire has stalled, with unresolved issues including Israels withdrawal from Gaza and the disarmament of Hamas
  • The conflict has diminished external pressures on Hamas and Israel, enabling both sides to solidify their positions without significant diplomatic engagement
  • Humanitarian aid to Gaza was largely suspended at the onset of the Iran conflict, with only partial resumption under U.S. pressure, failing to meet the commitments outlined in the Trump peace plan
METRICS
OTHER
over 850units
details
CONTEXT: Palestinian fatalities since the ceasefire announcement
WHY: This number highlights the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in Gaza
EVIDENCE: more than 850 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire has been announced.
FULL
05:00–10:00
Israeli control now encompasses approximately 60 to 64 percent of the Gaza Strip, leaving the majority of the Palestinian population confined to less than 40 percent of the territory. The establishment of new Israeli military outposts indicates a long-term presence with no immediate plans for withdrawal.
  • Israeli control now extends to approximately 60 to 64 percent of the Gaza Strip, confining the majority of the Palestinian population to less than 40 percent of the territory still under Hamas control
  • The establishment of new Israeli military outposts and infrastructure in Gaza suggests a long-term presence with no immediate plans for withdrawal
  • Despite ongoing discussions led by the UN, significant progress on critical issues such as Hamass disarmament and the potential deployment of an international stabilization force remains elusive
  • The assassination of a prominent Hamas leader marks a notable event, potentially influencing the groups internal decision-making and strategic direction
  • The political dynamics in Israel, particularly with the upcoming 2026 elections, are shaping policies in Gaza and the West Bank, with the current government showing little urgency to address ongoing conflicts
METRICS
OTHER
60 to 64 percent%
details
CONTEXT: percentage of Gaza Strip under Israeli control
WHY: This indicates a significant shift in territorial control affecting the Palestinian population
EVIDENCE: at least 60 to 64 percent of the Gaza strip is reportedly now under full Israeli control
OTHER
2 million residentspeople
details
CONTEXT: of displaced residents in Gaza
WHY: This highlights the humanitarian crisis and the scale of displacement in the region
EVIDENCE: 2 million residents remain displaced with very limited access to education and health
FULL
10:00–15:00
The ongoing war has shifted focus away from Gaza, impacting Hamas's financial and military support from Iran. This distraction has diminished Hamas's relevance in future negotiations regarding Gaza's reconstruction and governance.
  • The ongoing war may weaken Hamass ties with Iran, impacting its financial and military support as well as its internal leadership during an election period
  • Hamas is experiencing internal divisions, with factions either aligned with the Muslim Brotherhood or advocating for a more independent approach, influencing leadership choices
  • While the conflict has shifted focus away from Gaza, it has also reduced Hamass significance in future negotiations, as Israel and the U.S. make decisions regarding Gaza without its involvement
  • Israels political landscape is transitioning into campaign mode, which will affect its strategies and policies concerning Gaza and the surrounding region
  • The war has enhanced the relationship between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, with the UAE actively participating in humanitarian aid and diplomatic initiatives related to Gaza
FULL
15:00–20:00
The ongoing war has emboldened Hamas, reinforcing their rigid stance in Gaza while creating opportunities for internal Palestinian politics. However, the lack of new leadership emerging from recent elections suggests stagnation in political evolution.
  • The ongoing war has reinforced Hamass determination, as they view Irans resistance as a source of strength, leading to a more rigid position in Gaza
  • While the conflict has opened opportunities for internal Palestinian politics, such as elections within Fatah and Hamas, there is little evidence of new leadership emerging
  • The relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Israel has strengthened due to the war, with the UAE significantly contributing to humanitarian efforts in Gaza and shaping regional dynamics
  • Egypts role in the Gaza situation has become more complex, as the UAE has indirectly criticized Egypts support for Gulf states amid Iranian attacks, emphasizing their economic ties
  • The U.S. administrations commitment to Gazas reconstruction is vital, with estimates suggesting costs could exceed $70 billion, raising concerns about potential funding sources, including the Palestinian Authority
METRICS
OTHER
upwards of $70 billionUSD
details
CONTEXT: estimated cost for rebuilding Gaza
WHY: This figure highlights the significant financial challenge facing reconstruction efforts
EVIDENCE: the estimates are correct that rebuilding Gaza is going to cost upwards of $70 billion
OTHER
upwards of 40 billionUSD
details
CONTEXT: Emirati investments in the Egyptian economy
WHY: This investment underscores the economic ties that may influence regional dynamics regarding Gaza
EVIDENCE: their investments in Egypt, I think, are upwards of 40 billion currently
FULL
20:00–25:00
The ongoing election season in Israel is likely to prioritize domestic issues, diverting attention from urgent concerns related to Gaza. The Trump administration appears to accept a fragmented and intermittently violent Gaza as a reality, focusing more on domestic political considerations than on foreign policy.
  • The ongoing election season in Israel is likely to prioritize domestic issues, diverting attention from urgent concerns related to Gaza and the broader conflict
  • Public sentiment and political priorities in Israeli society are still heavily influenced by the trauma from the events of October 7
  • The Trump administration seems to accept a fragmented and intermittently violent Gaza as a reality, focusing more on domestic political considerations than on foreign policy
  • Israeli political dynamics, particularly under Benjamin Netanyahu, are constrained by his need to maintain power, which affects decisions regarding Gaza
  • The current war has redirected U.S. foreign policy, complicating the administrations capacity to effectively address the situation in Gaza
FULL
25:00–30:00
The ongoing war has led the Trump administration to deprioritize Gaza, viewing the situation as less urgent due to recent developments. This shift complicates peace initiatives and highlights the challenges mediators face in aligning the differing visions of Israel and Hamas.
  • The Trump administration has deprioritized Gaza, perceiving the situation as less urgent due to recent hostage releases and a reduction in civilian casualties
  • Despite ongoing violence, the U.S. seems to accept a fragmented Gaza as a long-term reality, complicating peace initiatives
  • The inability of mediators, including the U.S, to align Israels and Hamass differing visions for Gaza has hindered efforts for ceasefires and peace agreements
  • Successful historical demilitarization efforts underscore the importance of legitimacy, coercive capacity, and political inclusion, which are currently lacking in the Israeli-Palestinian context
  • Legal and political constraints regarding Hamas pose significant challenges for the U.S. in its role as a mediator between the conflicting parties
METRICS
DELIVERIES
30%%
details
CONTEXT: food deliveries in Gaza
WHY: This significant drop indicates a humanitarian crisis affecting the population
EVIDENCE: 77% deliveries have dropped to almost 30% of what they were before the war.
OTHER
850units
details
CONTEXT: Palestinian casualties since October 7th
WHY: This number reflects the severe impact of the conflict on civilians
EVIDENCE: 850 Palestinians have been killed
FULL
30:00–35:00
The U.S. administration is considering engaging Hamas politically, which Israel has firmly rejected.
  • The U.S. administration is open to engaging with Hamas politically, suggesting it could function as a political entity without armed activities, though Israel has rejected this idea
  • U.S. negotiators face significant challenges in reconciling the differing positions of the U.S, Israel, and Hamas, complicating efforts to reach a political solution
  • A leaked report details a five-stage timeline for the Trump peace plan, which includes disarming Hamas, but adds to doubts about oversight and compliance
  • Disarmament is complicated by the variety of weapons present and the proposed need for an international stabilization force, which regional leaders view with skepticism
  • Regional dynamics are evolving, with countries like the UAE and Jordan expressing varied perspectives on their involvement in Gaza and the role of international forces in disarmament
FULL
35:00–40:00
The ongoing war has significantly complicated the implementation of the Trump peace plan, particularly regarding the disarmament of Hamas. Arab states are struggling to coordinate their efforts, which undermines mediation and complicates relationships with the U.S.
  • The Trump peace plans implementation is hindered by significant challenges, particularly the disarmament of Hamas, which is crucial to the conflict in Gaza
  • Arab states, including Egypt, are trying to influence the disarmament process, but their lack of coordination is undermining mediation efforts with Hamas
  • The Arab viewpoint connects Gaza to the broader Palestine-Israel conflict, advocating for a comprehensive approach rather than isolated solutions
  • The ongoing war has altered the political, economic, and security priorities of Arab nations, complicating their relationships with the U.S. and each other, which may affect future engagement with Gaza
  • Amid the chaos of the war, there is an acknowledgment that regional stability and security are essential, with the Israel-Palestine conflict being a critical factor in that stability
METRICS
OTHER
March 2025year
details
CONTEXT: post Gaza war proposal
WHY: This date indicates the timeline for proposed peace efforts
EVIDENCE: the Arab League post Gaza war proposal of March 2025
FULL
40:00–45:00
The ongoing conflict has shifted focus away from the Palestinian issue, complicating the Trump peace plan. Regional dynamics are influenced by the actions of Israel and the responses of Arab nations, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
  • Saudi Arabia insists that a political solution for Palestinians is crucial for any normalization with Israel, despite perceptions that the Iran war has fostered closer ties between Israel and Arab nations
  • The absence of clear benefits for Saudi Arabia in normalizing relations with Israel is apparent, as Israels actions undermine trust by disregarding the sovereignty of other Arab states
  • A unified approach among regional countries is essential to effectively tackle the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is seen as vital for regional stability
  • While the UAE has expressed concerns over West Bank annexation, it is unlikely to withdraw from its peace agreement with Israel, highlighting a complex balancing act in regional relations
  • Saudi Arabias role in addressing the Gaza situation seems limited, with a preference for Kuwait to spearhead reconstruction funding, indicating a cautious stance on direct involvement
  • The outcomes of Israeli elections are shaping regional reactions to the Gaza crisis, with uncertainty about leadership potentially influencing future actions regarding the Palestinian issue
FULL
45:00–50:00
The ongoing conflict has shifted focus away from the Palestinian issue, complicating the Trump peace plan. Regional dynamics are influenced by the actions of Israel and the responses of Arab nations, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
  • The Trump administrations Middle East strategy focuses on strengthening authoritarian regimes in the Gulf, with Saudi normalization with Israel seen as a critical goal amid regional instability
  • Key Arab nations, including Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Libya, are facing significant instability, while Turkey, Israel, and Iran are emerging as dominant regional players
  • Gulf states are increasingly concerned about their internal security and the potential rise of Iranian influence, which is straining their relationships with Iran
  • Irans control over vital waterways poses economic challenges for Gulf nations, potentially limiting their capacity to support reconstruction efforts in Gaza and complicating the Trump peace plan
  • The evolving regional dynamics suggest that Gulf states may prioritize security concerns over political reforms, which could complicate their interactions with both Iran and Israel
FULL
50:00–55:00
The ongoing conflict involving Israel, Gaza, and Iran raises significant questions about Israel's military and economic capacity to manage multiple fronts. A potential shift in the Israeli government could lead to changes in security strategy and diplomatic relations with Arab states.
  • The conflict involving Israel, Gaza, and Iran raises concerns about the economic viability of Israels military operations and its capacity to handle multiple fronts
  • A change in the Israeli government could lead to a significant shift in security strategy, particularly in light of recent events, favoring a proactive stance against threats
  • The war with Iran offers Israel a chance to strengthen relationships with certain Arab Gulf states, as they share a heightened concern over the Iranian threat
  • Israel must overcome the challenge of transforming its image from an expansionist state to one focused on border security to build trust with Arab neighbors
  • Changing U.S. public opinion, particularly among younger voters, may influence American foreign policy towards Israel, revealing a growing gap between U.S
FULL
55:00–60:00
The ongoing conflict has diverted attention from the Palestinian issue, complicating diplomatic efforts such as the Trump peace plan. The U.S.-Israel relationship is under strain, influenced by shifting values among younger Americans and concerns over military aid sustainability.
  • The U.S.-Israel relationship is strained due to differing values, particularly among younger Americans, which may influence future foreign policy decisions
  • There is an increasing divergence in interests regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, complicating bipartisan support for Israel
  • Concerns exist about the sustainability of military aid to Israel, with potential future agreements possibly reducing financial support
  • The ongoing Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories is seen as a key factor in the current turmoil, emphasizing the international communitys failure to uphold legal commitments
  • A collaborative approach involving various international stakeholders, including Arab nations and European countries, is essential for effectively addressing the conflict
FULL
60:00–65:00
The ongoing conflict has shifted focus away from the Palestinian issue, complicating diplomatic efforts such as the Trump peace plan. A unified and strategic approach among international players is crucial for effectively addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
  • The Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories is viewed as a primary driver of regional instability, underscoring the international communitys failure to fulfill its legal obligations
  • A unified and strategic approach among international players, including Arab nations, is crucial for effectively addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
  • There is a call to broaden partnerships beyond the U.S. to foster regional stability, indicating that a coalition of willing nations is essential for significant progress
  • Concerns are raised regarding the narrative of declining international law, emphasizing the necessity for all parties to actively uphold and practice these legal standards
CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The assumption that external pressures could effectively influence Hamas and Israel is flawed, as both parties have entrenched their positions amid the Iran conflict. Inference: The lack of significant diplomatic engagement suggests that the absence of a robust mechanism for accountability allows both sides to operate without fear of repercussions, raising questions about the sustainability of any ceasefire.

METRICS
other
over 850 units
Palestinian fatalities since the ceasefire announcement
This number highlights the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in Gaza
more than 850 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire has been announced.
other
60 to 64 percent %
percentage of Gaza Strip under Israeli control
This indicates a significant shift in territorial control affecting the Palestinian population
at least 60 to 64 percent of the Gaza strip is reportedly now under full Israeli control
other
2 million residents people
of displaced residents in Gaza
This highlights the humanitarian crisis and the scale of displacement in the region
2 million residents remain displaced with very limited access to education and health
other
upwards of $70 billion USD
estimated cost for rebuilding Gaza
This figure highlights the significant financial challenge facing reconstruction efforts
the estimates are correct that rebuilding Gaza is going to cost upwards of $70 billion
other
upwards of 40 billion USD
Emirati investments in the Egyptian economy
This investment underscores the economic ties that may influence regional dynamics regarding Gaza
their investments in Egypt, I think, are upwards of 40 billion currently
deliveries
30% %
food deliveries in Gaza
This significant drop indicates a humanitarian crisis affecting the population
77% deliveries have dropped to almost 30% of what they were before the war.
other
850 units
Palestinian casualties since October 7th
This number reflects the severe impact of the conflict on civilians
850 Palestinians have been killed
other
March 2025 year
post Gaza war proposal
This date indicates the timeline for proposed peace efforts
the Arab League post Gaza war proposal of March 2025
THEMES
#middle_east_tensions#gaza_conflict#hamas_israel#peace_process#us_foreign_policy#nato_state#palestinian_issue#arab_coordination#disarmament_challenges#gaza_crisis#gaza_reconstruction#gulf_security#hamas#hamas_iran_relations#hamas_leadership#humanitarian_aid#iran_conflict#iran_influence#iran_threat#iran_war#israel_palestine#israel_security#military_aid#peace_plan#saudi_normalization#trump_peace_plan#trump_policyGaza
DISCLAIMER

This analysis is an original interpretation prepared by Art Argentum based on the transcript of the source video. The original video content remains the property of the respective YouTube channel. Art Argentum is not responsible for the accuracy or intent of the original material.