In a recent conference organized by the Monaco Mediterranean Foundation, political analyst Antonella Caruso addressed the complexities of peace in the Middle East, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Caruso emphasized that for any peaceful resolution to be achievable, the involved parties must reassess their maximalist objectives.

Currently, entrenched positions on both sides hinder any diplomatic progress, as both entities, Hamas and the Israeli government led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, remain committed to total victory.

The potential return of former U.S. President Donald Trump to power was discussed in relation to its possible effects on the region.

Caruso noted that despite the ongoing turmoil, the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East has not undergone significant transformation since Trump's previous presidency.

His administration's aim to facilitate normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia could influence conflict resolution, but lasting peace remains uncertain as Trump appears to prioritize economic opportunities for American businesses.

Caruso also highlighted the difficulty of achieving a decisive Israeli victory in the protracted conflict.

After 17 months of hostilities, Hamas continues to maintain a strong foothold in both Gaza and the frequently overlooked West Bank, where several armed groups reject any form of peace with Israel.

Concerns about Israel's expansionist policies were raised, particularly regarding military control over southern Lebanon and parts of southern Syria.

This strategy may create new friction points, as the presence of Israeli forces in these territories could potentially escalate into confrontations.

Caruso warned that escalating tensions in Syria, especially around key locations such as Mount Hermon near Damascus, pose additional risks due to the intransigent posture of Israeli defense officials.

The situation becomes increasingly complicated due to Turkey's backing of the Syrian government, which remains focused on national unity and sovereignty despite the challenges posed by Israel's military presence.

Caruso mentioned that any continued occupation could provoke conflicts as the dynamics shift in favor of Damasus's attempts to re-establish control.

In Lebanon, Caruso noted that since the recent election of a new president and government, Hezbollah has lost some influence, particularly as the country engages in reforms aimed at economic stabilization.

However, Israel's strategic military positions in southern Lebanon could foster tensions and provoke Hezbollah's resurgence, particularly if the current ceasefire between the two entities fails to hold.

Iran's influence in the region is perceived to be waning, with economic and diplomatic setbacks affecting its military strategies.

Caruso pointed out a recent letter from Trump to Iran's Supreme Leader, which, although the content is not publicly known, has been interpreted as a provocative gesture, potentially complicating diplomatic engagements further.

The mobilization of public opinion in the West regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has also elicited varied reactions, particularly within the United States, where sentiments have surfaced across university campuses against traditional pro-Israel stances.

In Europe, the conflict is often viewed through the lens of an East-West dichotomy, complicating narratives around the Israeli-Palestinian situation.

Caruso contended that while recent protests should not be classified as manifestations of radicalism, they represent a broader anti-imperialist narrative that complicates perceptions of the conflict.

The brutality of the ongoing violence, especially highlighted by the recent October 7 attacks, has intensified emotional responses, contrasting starkly with international support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.

This asymmetry in global empathy raises difficult questions about perceptions of justice among the conflicting parties.

With regards to the two-state solution, Caruso remarked on the historical challenges that have consistently thwarted progress, noting that the current political landscape in Israel is heavily influenced by the trauma of recent conflicts and widespread division between Palestinian factions.

The lack of a viable Palestinian state is further complicated by Israeli settlements and military structures, obstructing any pathway to a politically acceptable solution.

The prospect of annexation of the West Bank presents existential quandaries for Israel's democracy, as any peace arrangement reached would likely fall short of meeting Palestinian aspirations, thus entrenching the region in a cycle of conflict.

The Middle East remains mired in complexities, with each diplomatic initiative facing substantial military and political obstacles.