Is the pressure on the Israeli government to end the assault on Gaza increasing?

After weeks of Israeli bombardment of Gaza and an ongoing ground invasion, the unwavering support for the state amongst its western allies may remain firm, but cracks are beginning to emerge.

The US, UK, and Germany may still fully support Israel's actions in Gaza, despite the large civilian death toll. But elsewhere, attitudes have changed.

French President Emmanuel Macron, for example, has floated the benefits of a ceasefire. While Canadian leader Justin Trudeau has called on Israel to "stop killing babies".

This week, Belize suspended diplomatic relations with Israel, joining Bolivia and several other Latin American countries that have recalled their ambassadors from the country.

Outside of Latin America, Turkey, Jordan, Chad, and Bahrain have all reportedly withdrawn their ambassadors.

Additionally, South Africa’s ruling African National Congress said on Thursday it would back a motion to close the Israeli embassy in the country.

While these moves are significant, human rights activist Ameer Makhoul says that the power these countries hold is limited.

“Because the world is based on power, not ethics and values, they do not have the strongest point of power to influence,” he added. “They give a push, movement, to the solidarity movement.”

Nevertheless, fissures among some of Israel’s strongest backers are starting to show.

Read more: Is the pressure on the Israeli government to end the assault on Gaza increasing?