As Israel’s military operations in Gaza continue to worsen… Human rights and humanitarian organizations report a death toll that is staggering and incomprehensible, with at least 57,000 people already killed since the beginning of October. Thanks to COVID, that need is more critical than ever before. Israel’s extreme restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian assistance have led to famine-like conditions for the Palestinian people.
That’s how it’s worked in practice since October 7—Israel has forbade foreign reporters from entering Gaza unless they’re escorted by Israeli military personnel. This media blackout has contributed to broader concerns about transparency and accountability regarding the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the territory. Israel’s Supreme Court dismissed a legal petition that would have granted access to journalists. The court went on to cite security concerns as the primary justification for its ruling.
The ministry of health in Gaza has reported this tragic toll. Only in the last 24 hours, Israeli air strikes have brutally killed at least 67 people. Among those victims, the strike killed ten children, most tragically while hitting a medical point in central Gaza. Local resident Mohammed Abu Ouda was visibly emotional about the loss of innocent lives.
“What was our fault? What was the fault of the children?” – Mohammed Abu Ouda
Israeli military actions have directly targeted food distribution centers operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. This has only furthered the already horrific effect on civilian casualties. News reports have shown over 500 Palestinians killed trying to fetch these critical supplies. That’s why Minister for International Development and member of the organization Rabih Torbay called these attacks an egregious violation of international humanitarian law.
“This morning, innocent families were mercilessly attacked as they stood in line waiting for the doors to open. This is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law,” – Rabih Torbay
The goal of Israel’s military strikes is indeed to dismantle Hamas. The country claims Hamas started the escalation of violence that followed the attacks on October 7. Israeli officials claimed that they regretted any unintentional harm to innocent people. In spite of that, they still insist on going after Hamas operatives.
Israeli tanks have shelled hospitals and positioned themselves at the borders of tent encampments established close to hospitals in Gaza. This recent action deepens the anxiety and terror that displaced civilians already feel. From above, Israeli forces targeted encampments with gunfire even as civilians fled from violence there to seek shelter. Instead, they released tear gas in an attempt to disperse the crowd.
The Israeli government has long called for Hamas to be completely disarmed and to leave Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel would be willing to negotiate a permanent ceasefire. This opening would be possible only if and when a 60-day truce can be reached.
The humanitarian crisis worsens as Israel continues to militarily dictate the flow of aid into Gaza. Previously, the government has accused Hamas of hijacking humanitarian assistance meant for Palestinian civilians through U.N. assistance programs. In turn, Israel has promised to cooperate on behalf of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Their mission is to get assistance to everybody who needs it.
Despite these assurances, the dire conditions faced by the population raise significant concerns about the long-term implications of the ongoing conflict. As international calls for ceasefire increase amidst continuing violence and death, hope has all but vanished with no alternative settlement coming into view.