UN-Backed Experts Accuse Israel of Gender-Based Violence in Gaza Conflict

UN experts have accused Israel of systematic sexual and gender-based violence in Gaza, while Israel denies these allegations as biased. The Commission’s report highlights severe suffering among civilians, especially women and children. Separately, an Israeli airstrike in Syria resulted in one death, and aid packages were sent to the Druze minority, revealing Israel’s complex regional strategies amidst ongoing conflicts.

On Thursday, United Nations-backed experts reported that Israel systematically employs sexual, reproductive, and other forms of gender-based violence during its military operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory delivered intense scrutiny, stating that the dire conditions have resulted in disproportionate violence against women and children. In response, Israel’s mission to the UN rejected these claims and accused the Commission of relying on unreliable sources and maintaining a biased stance toward Israel.

The report sheds light on the extensive destruction throughout Gaza, attributing it to heavy explosions in civilian areas and deliberate attacks on hospitals and health facilities. Israel defended its military actions, asserting that it has taken significant steps to minimize civilian harm during the ongoing conflict, which has resulted in more than 48,000 Palestinian fatalities, primarily among women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.

Additionally, on the same day, an Israeli airstrike hit a residential building in the suburb of Dummar near Damascus, Syria, reportedly killing one individual. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the strike, emphasizing that airstrikes will continue as long as terrorist activities are directed at Israel. The attack allegedly targeted members of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group, though officials from the group were unable to confirm this.

Israel has also dispatched food aid to the Druze minority in Syria, delivering 10,000 packages to help support the community and foster relations during the country’s transitional period post-civil war. Coordination with local Druze leaders was established for this operation. However, skepticism remains regarding Israel’s intentions, as many Druze have declined these overtures, alleging that they could serve to undermine Syrian unity post-Assad’s regime.

In conclusion, the allegations raised by UN experts highlight serious concerns regarding Israel’s military conduct in Gaza, particularly regarding gender-based violence. The responses from Israel, including cooperation refusals with the investigation body, underline ongoing tensions. Likewise, military actions in Syria exemplify Israel’s broader regional strategies, raising complex questions about aid and political motives amidst the ongoing conflict.

In summary, the UN accusations against Israel concerning gender-based violence during military operations in Gaza evoke serious international concern. Israel’s response, which includes accusations of bias against the UN Commission of Inquiry, illustrates the complexities surrounding the conflict. Concurrently, actions taken in Syria demonstrate Israel’s attempts to navigate regional dynamics while securing its interests amidst the suffering and destruction. The situation requires thorough examination and resolution to ensure accountability and protection of civilians in conflict zones.

Original Source: apnews.com