In the face of an existential battle against terror groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, Israel finds itself increasingly isolated. It has been almost a year since country has been grappling with escalating security threats, starting with the horrific terrorist attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023. These attacks, among the deadliest in modern history, resulted in the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust. The violence, broadcast live across social media, left a deep scar on Israeli society and reshaped national discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian relationships.

However, as moral clarity fades and leading nations shift focus, much of the world appears reluctant to confront Iran and its proxies. Instead of standing firmly against the forces of terror, many countries have opted to criticize Israel, leaving it with no choice but to defend itself—often alone—in this critical fight for survival.

Since then, the dynamics of global opinion and geopolitical reactions have revealed sharp divides. Much of the international community’s focus has turned toward Israel’s military actions in response to Hamas, with pressure mounting on Israel to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Countries like the United Kingdom and Canada have suspended arms sales to Israel, citing concerns over possible violations of international humanitarian law. The timing of these moves, occurring shortly after the execution of Israeli hostages by Hamas, highlights the complexity and emotional charge of the global response. Israeli actions are scrutinized intensely, often without equal acknowledgment of the tactics employed by Hamas, such as the use of human shields and terror tunnels.

Hezbollah, a significant player in this conflict, has launched a sustained campaign from Lebanon, firing thousands of rockets into Israel. The group’s violation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which called for its withdrawal north of the Litani River in 2006, has largely gone unchecked by the international community. Despite the group’s aggression, global reactions have largely been limited to calls for “de-escalation,” a stark contrast to the harsher tone directed at Israel.

The conflict has spread beyond Israel’s immediate neighbors, with groups like Yemen’s Houthi rebels firing missiles at Israel, a development that underscores the regional and global stakes of the conflict. Iran’s support of these groups, alongside its proxies in Hezbollah and Hamas, reveals a broader strategy aimed at destabilizing the region and undermining Israel’s security.

This period has been defined by a disturbing trend: while Israel grapples with threats from terror groups bent on its destruction, much of the international discourse has focused disproportionately on its defensive measures. The global community’s reluctance to fully confront the roles of Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran suggests a deep-seated difficulty in acknowledging and addressing the threat posed by these groups. Instead, the easier path, for some, has been to criticize Israel, ignoring the brutal realities of the conflict.

Given this shifting geopolitical landscape, Israel may find itself increasingly isolated, with fewer allies willing to offer direct support in its existential fight. The suspension of arms sales and the lack of strong condemnation of terrorist organizations leaves Israel with limited options. In this context, Israel might have no choice but to act alone to ensure its survival. Surrounded by adversaries determined to destroy the Jewish state, Israel’s leadership may be forced to make difficult decisions in the absence of robust international backing.

The notion that Israel will have to stand on its own in this existential battle is becoming more likely, as the pressure to self-defend grows. With threats from every direction and wavering global support, Israel may find that it must take unilateral actions to safeguard its future and protect its people, even if it means going it alone.

Israeli artillery unit firing shells towards Lebanon (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)