Plight of Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, has drawn significant global attention, with reactions from governments, international organisations and public.

Over decades, Palestinian struggle for statehood and severe humanitarian crisis have garnered widespread empathy and support. Situation has often been framed as critical human rights issue, involving questions of justice, international law and morality. International community’s response has varied, ranging from strong condemnation of Israeli policies to calls for peace and justice.

Across globe, citizens have rallied to express their solidarity with Palestinians, often organizing protests, campaigns and humanitarian efforts. In cities like London, New York and Sydney, large-scale demonstrations have been held, with participants demanding an end to Israeli airstrikes, lifting of blockades and international intervention to stop what is often described as humanitarian catastrophe. These protests typically emphasise suffering of civilians-children, women and elderly-who face brunt of military operations in densely populated areas. In Muslim-majority countries such as Pakistan, Turkey and Malaysia, public sentiment overwhelmingly supports Palestinians. Demonstrations are frequently held in these nations, calling for stronger governmental action, including economic sanctions against Israel.   In Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been an outspoken critic of Israeli policies. Turkey has repeatedly condemned Israeli airstrikes and called for international pressure on Israel to stop its military actions. Erdogan’s government has also facilitated humanitarian aid to Gaza, working with international organisations to support those affected by violence, particularly children  While public protests reflect grassroots sentiment, government responses have been more complex, balancing diplomatic, economic and geopolitical interests.

France, for example, has historically supported two-state solution and has often condemned Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories as violations of international law. In 2024, France reiterated its commitment to Palestinian statehood, emphasising that continued colonisation by Israel is major obstacle to peace. However, French policy has often attempted to maintain a balance, ensuring that Israel’s security concerns are also addressed. However, in recent years, there has been growing criticism within Germany regarding Israel’s treatment of Palestinians. While German government continues to advocate for Israel’s right to defend itself, there has been increasing pressure from public and opposition parties to adopt more balanced stance that also recognises Palestinian suffering. While Iran has consistently taken hardline stance, positioning itself as staunch supporter of Palestinian cause. Iranian leaders frequently call for liberation of Palestine and dismantling of what they describe as Israeli occupation. Iran has also been accused of supporting militant groups like Hamas, which has led to strained relations with Western nations. Russia has also voiced support for Palestinian statehood, while at same time maintaining diplomatic relations with Israel. Moscow’s position reflects its broader geopolitical interests in Middle East, where it seeks to assert its influence. Russia has called for peace negotiations and halt to violence but has often been critical of US policies that favourof Israel. In China, government has maintained a more neutral stance, advocating for peace talks and two-state solution while calling for restraint from both sides. However, China’s rising influence in global affairs and its closer ties with Arab world have led to increased diplomatic engagement with Palestinian issue. Chinese officials have condemned violence against civilians and stressed need for international cooperation to resolve conflict. International organisations, particularly United Nations and International Red Cross, have frequently condemned violence in Gaza, calling for immediate ceasefires and humanitarian access to affected areas.

UN has passed numerous resolutions over years, condemning Israeli settlement policies and military actions, particularly in Gaza. In recent conflicts, UN has repeatedly warned of dire humanitarian conditions, with thousands of civilians killed or displaced and critical infrastructure such as hospitals and schools being destroyed. Human rights organisations have documented heavy toll of Israeli-Palestinian conflict on civilians, especially children. UNICEF reports that children in Gaza have been particularly vulnerable, facing not only threat of bombings but also psychological trauma from living in war zone. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have also reported extensively on what they describe as war crimes, including indiscriminate attacks on civilian areas, use of excessive force and blockade of essential goods and services. International Criminal Court has been involved in investigating potential war crimes in occupied Palestinian territories. Although ICC’s efforts have faced significant political and legal challenges, it reflects growing international pressure to hold accountable those responsible for civilian deaths and destruction in Gaza. Media has played critical role in shaping international perceptions of Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Coverage of civilian casualties, particularly children, has sparked outrage across world. Images and reports from Gaza, showing devastation of homes, hospitals and schools, have fueled global campaigns for Palestinian rights. Social media platforms have become powerful tools for advocacy, with activists, journalists and ordinary citizens sharing real-time updates from conflict zones.  Ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine remains one of most polarizing and deeply rooted disputes in modern history. Humanitarian toll on Palestinians, especially in Gaza, has led to widespread international condemnation, with many calling for urgent action to prevent further civilian casualties. While governments may be constrained by diplomatic and geopolitical considerations, global public has shown unwavering solidarity with Palestinian cause, demanding accountability, justice and an end to occupation. International organisations and human rights groups continue to call for peaceful resolution based on international law, emphasising importance of protecting civilian lives and ensuring that Palestinians have right to self-determination. As conflict drags on, world is reminded of urgent need for sustainable solution that addresses legitimate concerns of both Israelis and Palestinians, but more importantly, it underscores moral imperative to end suffering of innocent civilians.