Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-01-26 11:19:59
Fears for the safety and well-being of Palestinian civilians trapped in the violent conflict in Gaza have been mounting, with the UN’s highest court expected to issue an initial ruling on Friday in a genocide case against Israel. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has the authority to direct Israel to suspend its military campaign, which was launched in retaliation for unprecedented attacks by Hamas on October 7. However, the ICJ’s rulings have limited enforcement power.
The situation in Khan Yunis, the primary city in the southern part of Gaza, has sparked particular concern for international voices. Videos from AFPTV showing hundreds of Palestinians gathering around a truck delivering humanitarian aid in Gaza City, some even clinging to the vehicle’s roof, depicts a scene of desperation. The incident resulted in 20 fatalities and 150 injuries, with reports suggesting artillery shells and missiles as the cause.
Hamas has labeled the attack as a “horrific war crime,” further intensifying the gravity of the situation. Additionally, the United Nations reported that 13 people were killed by tank shelling at one of its shelters in Khan Yunis a day earlier. Organizations and nations like France have called on Israel to uphold international law and condemn the violence in Khan Yunis and Gaza.
The conflict has resulted in relentless battles, relentless bombings, and widespread displacement of Palestinians seeking safety near the Egyptian border. Philipe Lazzarini of UNRWA reported a “sea of people” fleeing Khan Yunis, and South Africa made an application to the ICJ, accusing Israel of human rights violations and seeking urgent intervention to protect the people of Gaza. While attention was focused on the ICJ’s impending decision, other efforts were underway, as leaders from various nations and intelligence agencies, including the US, Israel, and Qatari, aimed to negotiate a truce and the release of hostages. However, these diplomatic efforts face significant challenges given the complexity of the conflict and the reluctance of parties involved to compromise.
Read the original article on Daily Nation
