Israel is increasingly under international scrutiny, including from its primary ally, to enhance safeguards for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Health officials in the Gaza Strip report a toll of over 11,000 casualties in the past five weeks, as Israeli forces engage in conflict with Hamas militants. Originally, Israel reported over 1,400 deaths in a Hamas attack, later revising the figure to approximately 1,200.
In a significant statement during his visit to India, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed deep concern about the high number of Palestinian casualties. He acknowledged the suffering endured by Palestinians but reiterated the United States’ support for Israel’s efforts to prevent Gaza from being used as a base for terrorism.
French President Emmanuel Macron joined the chorus, urging Israel to cease bombing Gaza and specifically condemning the killing of women and infants. Macron, in a conversation with the BBC, made it clear that while France condemns the actions of Hamas, it also recognizes Israel’s right to self-defense. He called for an end to the airstrikes in Gaza.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared his country’s readiness to assist injured Palestinians from Gaza as local hospitals struggle to cope with the influx of patients.
Meanwhile, in London, a pro-Palestinian march is set to take place, the latest in a series of protests. Home Secretary Suella Braverman has labeled these demonstrations as “hate marches” due to the inciteful slogans chanted by a minority of participants. The march coincides with Armistice Day, adding complexity to the situation.
Responding to international criticism, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu argued that world leaders should condemn Hamas rather than Israel. He asserted that Hamas, by committing acts in Gaza, sets a dangerous precedent for potential future actions worldwide. Israel maintains that it does not intentionally target civilians, emphasizing its efforts to protect them, while also claiming that Hamas conceals command centers and tunnels beneath hospital structures.
