The US has called upon all parties in Gaza to respect international humanitarian law following the deaths of paramedics and a UN worker in an alleged military action. As the death toll rises, critics highlight the need for accountability and protection of medical personnel during conflict.
International Outcry Grows as US Demands Compliance with Humanitarian Law in Gaza
International Outcry Grows as US Demands Compliance with Humanitarian Law in Gaza
Following tragic events in Gaza, including the killing of medics, the US emphasizes the need for all parties to adhere to humanitarian laws amidst ongoing conflict.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has escalated tensions following the deaths of 15 individuals, including paramedics and a UN official, whose bodies were discovered in a mass grave. In light of these developments, the US administration has urged "all parties on the ground" to adhere to international humanitarian law, although it has refrained from confirming any investigation into the incident involving the Israeli military.
State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce attributed the ongoing violence to Hamas, stating, "Every single thing that happens in Gaza is happening because of Hamas." The unsettling circumstances leading to the fatalities were detailed by the UN's humanitarian agency, which reported that five ambulances and a UN vehicle were struck in a systematic attack on March 23, resulting in the tragic collection and burial of the deceased – some still clad in their uniforms.
The Israeli military justified its actions by claiming that the targeted vehicles were advancing without headlights or emergency signals, alleging that a Hamas operative was among those killed. However, they did not address claims concerning the victims, who were primarily healthcare workers. The gravity of the situation was emphasized by Jonathan Whittall, head of the UN's humanitarian agency in Gaza, who described the events as an "absolute horror," underscoring that "healthcare workers should never be a target."
In response to renewed military operations on March 18, following stalled ceasefire negotiations, Gaza's health ministry reports that over 1,000 lives have been lost, bringing the total death toll in the region's ongoing conflict to over 50,350. The US, as a key ally of Israel and an arms supplier, faces scrutiny regarding its role and obligations under its own laws to prevent the misuse of US weapons in violation of humanitarian law.
Amidst these developments, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, raising urgent calls for accountability and protection for civilians and medical personnel in armed conflict zones.
