U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed concern over the high number of Palestinian casualties in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Speaking in New Delhi on Friday, Blinken stated that while he appreciates Israel’s efforts to minimize civilian casualties, more needs to be done to protect lives and provide aid to those in need. He mentioned that the U.S. has proposed additional ideas to Israel, including longer humanitarian pauses and increasing the amount of assistance getting into Gaza.
These remarks come as United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk called for an investigation into what he described as Israel’s indiscriminate bombardment and shelling in densely populated areas in Gaza. Turk urged Israel to end the use of such methods and means of warfare, stating that the high levels of civilian casualties raise serious concerns about breaches of international humanitarian law.
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The Israeli military has continued its offensive in densely populated areas, prompting a growing number of civilians to flee south. Many people have sought refuge in hospitals, hoping they will be safer than their homes or United Nations shelters. However, several hospitals have been repeatedly hit by Israeli airstrikes.
According to the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza, the number of Palestinians killed in the war has risen to over 10,800, including more than 4,400 children. In the occupied West Bank, over 160 Palestinians have been killed, and more than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, most of them in Hamas attacks. Additionally, around 240 hostages were taken from Israel into Gaza by the militant group.
As the conflict continues, the situation in Gaza remains dire. The spillover of the war has caused significant damage in Lebanon, where Hezbollah and allied groups have clashed with Israeli forces on the border. The United Nations humanitarian coordinator in Lebanon, Imran Riza, expressed concern over escalating tensions and the alarming attacks that have killed and injured civilians.
Blinken’s remarks highlight the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict and the protection of civilian lives. The international community, including the United States and the United Nations, must continue to push for a peaceful resolution and ensure that aid reaches those in need.
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