The Gaza War: A Stain on Humanity
The United Nations has declared that the Gaza war is “staining humanity” as it approaches its 100th day. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his commitment to defeating Hamas, the Islamist group ruling Gaza. The conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis in Gaza and raised concerns about regional escalation after US and British forces targeted pro-Hamas rebels in Yemen.
The war began on October 7 when Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack from the Gaza Strip, resulting in approximately 1,140 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians. Hamas also seized around 250 hostages, with 132 still believed to be in Gaza, including at least 25 who have been killed. In response, Israel launched a relentless bombardment that has claimed the lives of at least 23,843 people, mostly women and children.
The Israeli siege has caused severe shortages of food, water, medicine, and fuel in Gaza, leading to a collapsing healthcare system. Philippe Lazzarini, the head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, expressed his concern about the dire situation in Gaza. He stated that an entire generation of children is being traumatized, diseases are spreading rapidly, and famine is imminent.
The International Court of Justice in The Hague recently heard arguments in a case brought by South Africa, accusing Israel of breaching the UN Genocide Convention. The case seeks to halt the military campaign, but Israel maintains that it is acting in self-defense and not targeting Palestinian residents. Netanyahu made it clear that no court or military foe could prevent Israel from achieving its goal of destroying Hamas.
Despite international condemnation, Netanyahu remains resolute in his determination to continue the war until victory is achieved. He stated that most Hamas battalions in Gaza have been eliminated and that Israel will not be stopped by any external forces.
The impact of Israeli strikes on Gaza has been devastating. Nimma Al-Akhras, an 80-year-old resident, described the destruction of her home during an Israeli strike. She recounted the terrifying experience and how she was pulled to safety by someone nearby. The Israeli army reported striking dozens of rocket launchers and eliminating four “terrorists” in air strikes. However, the civilian casualties continue to rise, with mourners gathering at hospitals to pray for their slain relatives.
The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza has been exacerbated by winter rains, displacing nearly 85 percent of the population. Many have sought shelter in areas lacking the necessary infrastructure to support them. Gaza’s health ministry spokesman accused Israel of deliberately targeting hospitals, leading to devastating repercussions. Hospitals, protected under international humanitarian law, have repeatedly been hit by Israeli strikes.
In Israel, there is growing concern for the hostages held in Gaza as they approach their 100th day in captivity. Thousands of people rallied in Tel Aviv, demanding their release. Relatives of the captives unveiled a replica of the Gaza tunnels where they are believed to be held. Simultaneously, a separate group gathered to call for an end to the war, emphasizing that revenge is not victory.
As the Gaza war continues to unfold, it is clear that the toll on humanity is immense. The international community must come together to find a peaceful resolution and alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. The world cannot afford to turn a blind eye to this ongoing tragedy.