Israel controls 50% of Gaza as Palestinians get squeezed into shrinking wedges of land
Associated PressMAR 29
Hamas Ambush in Northern Gaza Kills 5 Israeli Soldiers, Injures 14
Above: The mother of Benyamin Asulin, who was killed in northern Gaza on Monday, mourns during his funeral on July 8, 2025, in Haifa, Israel. Image copyright: Amir Levy/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The return to war has not saved the hostages and only further endangers Israeli soldiers. Furthermore, Israel's aid distribution plans are already proving to be ineffective and problematic. Allowing in a token amount of aid will not significantly improve the humanitarian situation. Indeed, both sides need to make concessions so that the ceasefire can be fully implemented and the hostages are returned.
Pro-Israel narrative
Though Trump and Netanyahu want a deal that leads to the return of the hostages, the ball is ultimately in Hamas' court. The terror group's unrealistic demands have consistently stalled negotiations and imperiled the lives of millions of Palestinians. Israel never wanted this war, and it is up to Hamas to decide when it will end.
Pro-Palestine narrative
The United States and Israel are using the same tired playbook they have been using since day one — undermine negotiations then blame Hamas for their failure. Hamas has been clear that it would release all of the hostages in exchange for the end of the war, yet Israel has decided that it would rather commit genocide in Gaza than see the hostages return home. This war will only end when the United States pressures Israel to withdraw.