Collective Punishment: Israel’s Latest Atrocity in Gaza

======================================================

A new report has exposed Israel’s brutal campaign of collective punishment against the Palestinian civilian population in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli government, under the leadership of National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, has been accused of perpetrating a genocide and ethnic cleansing of Palestinians.

Escalating Settler Attacks

Since October 7th, settler attacks on Palestinians have increased dramatically, with an average of eight attacks per day. These attacks have resulted in the displacement of over 82 Palestinian households, comprising 607 people, including 112 children, from their homes in the occupied West Bank.

Targeting Health Facilities and Personnel

The World Health Organization has documented 96 attacks against health facilities and personnel in the occupied West Bank, including the targeting of ambulances and medical staff. The organization has called for a humanitarian ceasefire and the safe passage of fuel, medical supplies, and aid into and across Gaza.

Intentional Starvation and Deliberate Targeting of Civilians

The report also highlights Israel’s deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian objects, including hospitals, which are protected under international humanitarian law. The intentional starvation of the civilian population by cutting off power, fuel, and water is a crime against humanity and a grave breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention.

International Condemnation and Calls for Action

International organizations and UN experts have condemned Israel’s actions as war crimes and collective punishment. The UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories has stated that there is a risk of ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in Gaza, with Israeli officials declaring their intent to expel Palestinians from the Strip into the Sinai desert.

The International Committee of the Red Cross has also called for Israel to treat individuals deprived of liberty humanely and grant access to them. The organization has visited hospitals in Gaza and reported staggering needs, including supplies at a limit and medical teams on the brink of collapse.

Accountability and a Call to End Occupation

As the international community continues to condemn Israel’s actions, it is imperative that we hold them accountable for their war crimes and collective punishment against Palestinians. It is time for Israel to end its occupation and recognize the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.