Suad Yassen writes: International Humanitarian Law and What Happens in Gaza
By: Dr. Suad Yassen – Chairman of the Board of Directors of Al-Yaseen Training
Humanitarian law encompasses a set of rules and regulations designed to reduce human suffering during armed conflict. The distinction refers to distinguishing between combatants and civilians and ensuring that only legitimate military objectives are targeted, proportionality requires that the injury caused by the attack be proportional to the military advantage gained, humanity emphasizes respect for the inherent dignity of each person, while necessity limits the use of force to situations where legitimate military objectives are necessary.
Despite its importance, the implementation of international humanitarian law faces challenges due to the complex nature of modern warfare and the high human costs it entails. The events in Gaza have highlighted the effects of international humanitarian law and its application, as the conflict between Israel and Palestine has led to a large number of civilian casualties and widespread suffering. Scope: This raises questions about the extent to which the concerned parties adhere to the provisions of international humanitarian law, specifically those related to precautionary measures, proportionality, and distinction between combatants and civilians.
On the conflict-torn territory of Gaza, soaked in blood and shackled by conflict, humanitarian law stands out as a glimmer of hope and a resounding call for justice. Applying it to international events in this war-torn region becomes an imperative endeavor to preserve humanity amid chaos. A dramatic phase unfolds in which countless innocent lives fall between the flames of political maneuvering and violent ideologies. In light of this tragedy, humanitarian law must put its light firmly in place, demand accountability for all parties concerned for their actions against civilians, and uphold the principles of proportionality, distinction and protection of non-combatants. The fate of those trapped in this tumultuous battle lies precariously on a delicate tightrope where justice swings from side to side, often obscured by propaganda and biased narratives. However, through strict adherence to humanitarian law, we can get fleeting glimpses of solace amid the devastation – at least until peace finally prevails in Gaza.
The stark reality of international events in Gaza compels us to confront the cruelty and brutality that human beings are capable of unleashing upon each other, as the use of force against civilians, depriving them of their basic needs and ignoring their inherent dignity violates not only international humanitarian law, but also our sense of morality. In these difficult times we must remember that adherence to human rights principles is a powerful tool for accountability and collective action for peace and justice. It is by upholding these laws exclusively that we can begin to heal the wounds inflicted on the innocent Stuck in this tragic theater of war.
While Israel asserts its right to self-defence, critics say its military operations often result in the use of disproportionate force against the civilian population and violate basic principles of international humanitarian law. inherent in the fundamental values of international humanitarian law. Efforts must be made to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law by all parties concerned and to prioritize human life over political interests to alleviate the suffering borne by those affected by the armed conflicts in Gaza.
Read also
