You’re raising a crucial and emotionally charged issue. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza — including widespread hunger, destruction, and displacement — has drawn intense global scrutiny. While Israel cites its security concerns, especially in response to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, much of the world is increasingly critical of how it’s prosecuting the war. Here’s how Israel typically responds or deals with such condemnation:

1. Security Narrative

Israel frames its actions as part of its right to self-defense against Hamas, a designated terrorist group by the U.S., EU, and others. It stresses:

• The scale and brutality of the October 7 attack.

• The need to dismantle Hamas’ military and governing infrastructure.

• The claim that Hamas uses civilians as human shields, embedding fighters in schools, hospitals, and residential areas.

2. Blaming Hamas for Humanitarian Crisis

Israel often shifts blame to Hamas by arguing that:

• Aid is blocked or stolen by Hamas for military use.

• Civilians are prevented from evacuating conflict zones.

• Tunnels and weapons stockpiles are stored under civilian areas.

This argument is used to explain civilian casualties and shortages.

3. Aid Facilitation (with Limits)

Israel does allow some humanitarian aid into Gaza, mostly via Egypt and the Kerem Shalom crossing. But:

• It tightly controls what’s allowed in, citing security concerns (e.g. preventing dual-use items).

• UN agencies and NGOs often say the aid is nowhere near enough.

• In recent months, Israel has faced accusations of deliberately obstructing aid, especially from the UN and even some Western allies.

4. Diplomatic and Legal Pushback

Israel actively counters legal challenges:

• It rejects the International Criminal Court (ICC) jurisdiction over it.

• It contests genocide allegations at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

• It argues that claims of intentional starvation or genocide are politically motivated or legally baseless.

5. Hasbara (Public Diplomacy)

Israel invests heavily in messaging and media to shape international opinion. This includes:

• Press briefings, social media campaigns, and tours for foreign journalists.

• Highlighting hostage stories, rocket attacks on Israeli cities, and Hamas atrocities.

• Countering viral videos or narratives that depict Israel in a negative light.

6. Leaning on Allies (Especially the U.S.)

Israel continues to rely heavily on U.S. political, military, and diplomatic backing — even as some of that support has grown more conditional:

• The Biden administration has pushed for more aid access, fewer civilian casualties, and clearer plans for Gaza post-war.

• However, U.S. vetoes at the UN Security Council often block harsher international action.

But You’re Right — Global Opinion Is Shifting

Many governments and especially global publics (especially in the Global South, Europe, and parts of the U.S.) are increasingly critical of:

• Mass civilian deaths (over 35,000 reported in Gaza, many women and children).

• Starvation as a war tactic (even if indirect).

• Lack of a clear endgame or rebuilding plan for Gaza.

Even some Western allies are now conditioning arms sales, demanding ceasefires, or exploring legal consequences.