As we have seen by its recent UN veto, the US doesn't seem to want a safe zone or, at least, not enough to force one upon its ally Israel against its will.

On 7 October, Hamas shocked the world, when thousands of its militants invaded southern Israel in an attack that demonstrated an unusual level of complexity.

The leader of the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus tells Al Majalla what is in the way of negotiations resuming over the island's future, blaming the "mindset" of Greek Cypriots and a lack of equality

While the British government has been resolute in its belief that Israel has a right to defend itself without setting red lines, many Scottish and Irish officials have been far more critical of Israel

Iranian-backed militia drone attacks on US forces have increased in recent days. While these incidents come in the wake of the Hamas attack, in Syria they have different implications.

Rhetoric and internal political manoeuvring need to be put to one side, and the prime minister must deliver tangible improvements to the everyday quality of life for millions of Iraqis.

China has a huge interest in ensuring that the Gulf region is stable. A regional war that disrupts the oil supply can potentially bring China to an economic halt.

Egyptian officials have been talking to Iran since Israel's war on Gaza began earlier this month and warning of potentially catastrophic consequences for the region should the conflict expand.

Potential outcomes include a temporary Israeli re-occupation, the return of the Palestinian Authority or even a disarmed Hamas to rule in Gaza or even international peacekeepers being deployed.

As Israel ponders its next steps, caution should be the operating word. Israel should set realistic and gradual goals to degrade Hamas while fostering hope for an actual resolution of the conflict.