HomeInternational NewsIsraeli Airstrikes in Gaza Result in High Civilian Casualties

Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza Result in High Civilian Casualties

Israeli military operations in Gaza continue to result in alarming loss of life. Over the weekend, an attack that killed more than 100 Palestinians taking refuge in a school in Gaza City was justified by Israel, citing it targeted 20 militants from Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Last month, the killing of at least 90 Palestinians in al-Mawasi was similarly defended, with Israeli authorities claiming the operation aimed to eliminate two Hamas commanders, including Mohammed Deif, leader of the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.

Since the outbreak of the conflict, Israeli forces have killed nearly 40,000 Palestinians and injured tens of thousands more. While Israeli authorities sometimes dispute these casualty figures, it has been clear that they view the destruction in Gaza and the resulting civilian deaths as a necessary cost in their campaign against Hamas, which launched an attack on Israel resulting in approximately 1,139 fatalities.

The issue of proportionality is increasingly being raised as significant civilian losses accompany attacks targeting militants. According to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), any attack causing excessive civilian casualties or damage to civilian objects is prohibited if it outweighs the anticipated military advantage.

Analysts suggest that Israeli military strategy often involves the use of disproportionate force. “Massive attacks provide the Israeli government and military with something to point to as a ‘victory’, as they result in the killing of Hamas leaders and large numbers of civilians, fitting into Israel’s broader strategy of deterrence through destruction,” explained Tariq Kenney-Shawa, a political fellow at Al-Shabaka, a Palestinian think tank.

Israeli operations in Gaza have been described as “genocide” and “domicide” due to the military’s demolition of homes, schools, hospitals, and cultural monuments. According to a report from the United Nations, over 55% of buildings were destroyed between October 7 and May 31.

The Israeli military strategy maintains that the destruction is necessary to target Hamas personnel. “Regardless of Israel’s claims that Hamas leaders are present in the targeted areas, it is unacceptable to kill civilians and to target ambulances and civil protection,” said Ihab Maharmeh, a researcher at the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies.

Following the attacks on October 7, it is believed that the Israeli military has altered its interpretation of proportionality in warfare. Sources within the Israeli military have indicated that soldiers may kill up to 20 civilians in the process of eliminating a lower-ranking Palestinian militant. This number could increase to hundreds for a Hamas commander.

“It would be difficult for any international humanitarian lawyer to argue that this is an acceptable application of proportionality,” stated Shane Darcy, a professor at the Irish Centre for Human Rights.

Although Israeli strikes on civilians have faced international criticism, there have been few tangible actions from Israel’s allies aimed at changing military tactics. The International Criminal Court’s prosecutorial actions for war crimes against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have not yet influenced the war strategy.

Analysts believe that unless Israel is held accountable, particularly by the United States, the high civilian death toll is likely to persist. “Israel operates with impunity,” said Kenney-Shawa. “Israel has not faced consequences for the mass killings of Palestinians, enabling them to carry out brutal attacks without fear of accountability.”

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