Smoke and dust choke the air over Gaza – a grim reflection of the escalating violence that has plunged the region into a dire humanitarian crisis. Israel’s persistent disregard for UN Security Council resolutions and its brutal targeting of civilian areas cannot be justified. The refusal of Israeli forces to heed international calls for a ceasefire, alongside their intensified assaults on hospitals and residential districts, is utterly reprehensible.

Shocking footage captured by certain international media outlets depicts unarmed Palestinian men, including one waving a white flag in surrender, being fatally shot by Israeli troops and then hastily buried with a bulldozer near Gaza City. This highlights the appalling brutality of the Israeli forces. The soaring civilian death toll, including the targeting of hospitals where the sick and wounded seek refuge, is a gross violation of the principles of humanity and the laws of war. No political or military objective justifies the killing of innocent civilians or the destruction of vital medical facilities.

Furthermore, the threat of a ground assault on densely populated areas like Rafah only exacerbates an already dire situation. The potential for further loss of life and displacement of civilians underscores the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and an immediate cessation of hostilities.

It is incumbent upon the international community to condemn Israel’s actions in the strongest terms and to demand compliance with UN resolutions calling for a ceasefire. The lives of innocent civilians hang in the balance, and the world cannot afford to stand idly by while atrocities unfold in Gaza.

Israel’s actions in Gaza have drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organisations and world leaders alike. The indiscriminate targeting of civilian areas and infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, constitutes a clear violation of international humanitarian law. The United Nations has repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the suffering of the civilian population.

The recent escalation in violence has resulted in a staggering loss of life and a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. According to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, at least 66 people were killed in the bombardment and combat in the 24 hours until Wednesday morning. The death toll since the beginning of Israel’s offensive on 7 October 2023 now stands at over 32,490 Palestinians, with the majority being women and children. The relentless airstrikes and shelling have left entire families homeless and traumatised, with no safe haven to flee.

The targeting of hospitals and medical facilities is particularly egregious and constitutes a war crime under international law. The deliberate destruction of infrastructure essential for the provision of healthcare further exacerbates the suffering of the civilian population and impedes access to life-saving medical treatment. The international community must hold Israel accountable for these egregious violations and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with the population facing severe shortages of food, water, fuel, and other essential supplies. The United Nations has warned that Gaza is on the brink of a “man-made famine,” with over 2.4 million people at risk of starvation. The ongoing blockade imposed by Israel has exacerbated the crisis, preventing the entry of humanitarian aid and restricting the movement of goods and people. The international community must pressure Israel to lift the blockade and allow unrestricted access for humanitarian assistance to reach those in need.

Israel’s actions in Gaza not only constitute a grave violation of international law but also undermine the prospects for peace and stability in the region. The cycle of violence and retaliation only serves to perpetuate suffering and deepen the sense of injustice and resentment among the Palestinian population. The only viable solution to the conflict is a negotiated settlement that addresses the legitimate grievances of both sides and ensures the rights and dignity of all people living in the region.

The United States, as a staunch ally of Israel, must use its influence to pressure Israel to end its military offensive and engage in meaningful dialogue with the Palestinian leadership. The Biden administration’s recent decision to allow passage of a Gaza ceasefire resolution at the United Nations is a positive step, but more must be done to hold Israel accountable for its actions. The United States should condition military aid to Israel on its compliance with international law and respect for human rights, including an end to the blockade of Gaza and the protection of civilians.

Israel’s continued assault on Gaza and disregard for international law are unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. The international community must act swiftly to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the suffering of the civilian population. The only path to a lasting peace in the region is through dialogue, negotiation, and respect for the rights and dignity of all people. Israel must recognise the humanity of the Palestinian people and take concrete steps towards ending the occupation and achieving a just and lasting resolution to the conflict.

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The writer is News Editor of the Daily Sun.

Email: [email protected]