American Weapons in Gaza: A Humanitarian Catastrophe Unfolds
The shadow of American-made weapons looms over the battered city of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. The recent use of GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs (SDB) by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in a densely populated displacement camp has sparked international outrage. According to CNN's analysis of video footage and expert consultations, the remnants of these high-precision bombs, manufactured by Boeing, were found at the attack site, which tragically killed 45 people, including many women and children.
Humanitarian organizations and Palestinian sources have decried the ongoing bombings in Rafah. Continuous strikes have led to severe injuries, the destruction of homes, and devastating setbacks for humanitarian aid efforts. The IDF claims that these bombings target Hamas fighters, but the high civilian toll tells a different story. Notably, the weight of each bomb used in these operations exceeds 100 kilograms, capable of causing large-scale destruction and fires.
International Repercussions and Diplomatic Responses
The international response has been heavily critical. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed deep sorrow for the worsening humanitarian situation during discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Beijing. Meanwhile, the UN Security Council has been a battleground for diplomatic tensions, with countries like Russia and France advocating for immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza. Russia's deputy ambassador to the UN, Anna Evstigneeva, has called for increased pressure on Israel and its allies, notably the United States.
France's President Emmanuel Macron has also urged for an immediate halt to the Israeli military operations in Gaza, coordinating with Palestinian President Abu Mazen. Macron has further pushed for formal recognition of the State of Palestine, emphasizing the need for reforms within the Palestinian National Authority (PNA).
While diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire continue, the situation on the ground remains dire. Israel's National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi has estimated the fighting in Gaza might continue for another seven months. In contrast, Cairo has denied accusations that Hamas uses tunnels under the Rafah crossing, a claim Israel has made to justify its continued military operations.
The usage of American weapons in these attacks has opened a contentious debate over Washington's military support for Israel. While the US publicly condemns the attacks, its supply of advanced munitions like the GBU-39 SDBs underlines the complexity and contradictions in its foreign policy. The devastation in Rafah, fueled by these weapons, underscores the urgent need for a reassessment of military aid and a concerted push for peace.
- Occupation army spokesman Daniel Hagari claimed that the bombs used in Rafah would not have caused large fires if there were no Hamas weapons depots nearby. However, these statements have been challenged by military analysts and local sources.
- French ambassador to the UN Nicolas de Rivière emphasized the need for the Security Council to address the humanitarian crisis urgently. Such international pressure aims to influence Israel to cease its military operations and reassess its strategies.
- The United States remains the largest supplier of weapons to Israel, with recent military aid agreements amounting to $15 billion. This support continues despite allegations that Israeli actions have breached international humanitarian laws.
- Beyond the battlefield, global leaders and organizations emphasize the need for a lasting political solution, including the recognition of Palestinian statehood, to prevent further escalations and humanitarian crises in the region.
