Gaza City — As military assaults intensify in Gaza, authorities issued a strong statement condemning Israel and its international backers for what they referred to as grave violations of international law and human rights.
At a press conference held Monday by senior officials from Gaza’s administration, senior representatives accused Israel of targeting civilians, hospitals and essential infrastructure as part of its ongoing military offensive. Iyad Al-Bozom of Gaza’s Interior Ministry stated, “Masacres committed against our people must not go unpunished… Israel along with all governments that support and arm it must face justice before international courts.”
A call for accountability comes amid a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Local health officials report that thousands have been killed or wounded – most civilians, including women and children; hospitals, water supply systems, and power plants have all been severely damaged, pushing Gaza closer towards collapse than ever.
Gaza authorities are pressing the International Criminal Court (ICC) and other international legal institutions to immediately initiate investigations into what they deem war crimes, in addition to appealing to United Nations agencies and human rights organizations to take tangible steps beyond mere condemnations statements.
Israel asserts that its military operations are intended solely to dismantle Hamas’ armed capabilities and takes steps to reduce civilian casualties, though Israeli officials note that Hamas uses civilian areas as shields, making strikes harder to conduct precisely. Nonetheless, international observers and humanitarian groups have voiced grave concern at both civilian casualty numbers and destruction levels caused by these efforts.
Global reactions remain mixed. Some countries have taken up Gaza’s call for investigations of potential violations of international law while others support Israel’s right to defend itself. Unfortunately, deep divisions within the international community have hindered efforts to establish a ceasefire or open safe corridors for humanitarian aid delivery.
Grief and anger in Gaza is mounting as families mourn their losses through mass funerals daily. “We are not numbers; we deserve justice and dignity,” stated Rasha Qassem, who recently experienced multiple airstrikes which claimed several family members.
As the conflict unfolds, Gaza authorities vow to continue pressing for legal and diplomatic actions that ensure “systemic crimes against Palestinian people” are brought before international courts for prosecution.