The four psychological dimensions behind Hamas’ attack and Israel’s retaliation

Israel's Delegitimization and Dehumanization of the Palestinians Israel's massive military response, resulting in thousands of Palestinian civilian deaths and widespread destruction in Gaza, indicates a willingness to inflict extensive collateral damage in pursuit of Hamas. This approach suggests a high degree of dehumanization of Palestinian civilians. Many Israelis view Hamas purely as a terrorist organization with no legitimate claims or grievances, while many far-right ordinary Israelis and some officials have called Hamas members "human animals."

The long-standing conflict has created deep-seated traumas on both sides, making it easier to view the other as an enemy rather than as fellow humans. The mutual delegitimization and dehumanization of the other have been used to justify actions that would otherwise be considered unacceptable and created an environment where extreme violence could be rationalized and executed.

In the final analysis, both sides must accept that despite these psychological impediments, neither side will be able to uproot the other, not now and not ever. Both sides must come to their senses and begin a reconciliation process to mitigate these impediments and move toward peaceful coexistence. Otherwise, the current horrific conflagration will be just another tragic chapter in the annal of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, only to be repeated with unfathomable death and destruction. The question again will be not if but when.