Recent events in Gaza continue to cause deep concern and raise critical ethical and humanitarian questions. The Israeli airstrike targeting the Rafida School in Deir al-Balah, which killed 28 Palestinians and injured more than 54 others, raises major concerns regarding respect for international humanitarian law and the protection of civilians in times of conflict.
Israeli authorities claim to have carried out a “precise strike” against militants inside a command and control center in the Rafida School, alleging that the center was being used to plan terrorist attacks against Israel. However, the tragic toll of this operation raises doubts about the proportionality of the means used and the ability to guarantee the safety of civilians in a densely populated area such as Gaza.
The loss of civilian lives, particularly those of women and children, is unacceptable and calls for a thorough and transparent investigation to establish accountability and ensure that such tragedies do not happen again. The Israeli authorities must take steps to protect civilian lives and respect fundamental principles of humanitarian law, including by avoiding attacks on civilian infrastructure such as schools and ensuring unhindered humanitarian access to affected populations.
The conflict in Gaza, which has been going on for over a year, has already caused a terrible toll of casualties and suffering. It is imperative that the parties to the conflict engage in a process of dialogue and negotiation with a view to a peaceful and lasting solution. The international community also has a crucial role to play by exerting diplomatic pressure on the parties to the conflict and supporting mediation efforts to achieve a cessation of hostilities.
In these times of conflict and suffering, it is essential to remember that every life matters and that peace and justice must be the top priorities. Civilians, whether Palestinian or Israeli, should not be targeted and deserve protection in all circumstances. It is time to turn the page on violence and hostility and build a future of peace, security and dignity for all people in the region.