UN experts have accused Israel of systematic sexual and gender-based violence in Gaza amidst its conflict with Hamas. Israel refutes these claims, attributing civilian casualties to Hamas and refusing to cooperate with the inquiry due to perceived bias. Additionally, Israel conducted an airstrike in Syria and is providing food aid to the Druze minority. The situation remains tense as both humanitarian and military dynamics continue to unfold.
On Thursday, United Nations-backed experts accused Israel of employing systematic sexual, reproductive, and other forms of gender-based violence in its military actions against Hamas in Gaza. The Israeli mission to the U.N. in Geneva dismissed these allegations, contending the Commission of Inquiry relies on unverified sources, thus expressing a lack of collaboration with what it perceives as a biased inquiry.
The report issued by the commission addressed the significant destruction in Gaza and highlighted the use of heavy explosives in civilian areas, along with attacks on hospitals. It concluded that these actions contributed to disproportionate violence experienced by women and children. Israel claims it has implemented measures to mitigate civilian harm during the 15-month conflict, which is currently under a fragile ceasefire, attributing civilian casualties to Hamas’s operations in residential zones.
In related news, an Israeli airstrike reportedly struck a residential building in Damascus, Syria, resulting in one death. The Israeli Defense Minister confirmed the strike but did not elaborate on the details, warning that Israel would respond assertively to any terrorist threats. Reports suggest the targets may have ties to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group.
Israel has also sent food aid to Syria’s Druze minority to build relations amid the ongoing civil strife. About 10,000 food packages were delivered to the Druze community in southern Syria after coordinating efforts with local leaders. However, some Druze have resisted Israel’s outreach, with critics accusing the nation of seeking to exploit Syria’s instability following the tenure of President Bashar Assad.
In summary, the latest developments highlight serious allegations against Israel concerning human rights violations in its military activities in Gaza, alongside its military engagements in Syria and attempts to strengthen diplomatic ties with the Druze minority.
The recent accusations from UN-backed experts against Israel concerning the systematic use of sexual and gender-based violence in Gaza add to the complex narrative surrounding the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Despite Israel’s denials and claims of responsible conduct in wartime, international scrutiny remains stringent. Furthermore, efforts to provide humanitarian aid to the Druze minority in Syria illustrate Israel’s multifaceted approach to regional relations amidst civil unrest.
Original Source: apnews.com
