Palestinians and Palestinian Americans have initiated a lawsuit against the U.S. State Department, alleging violations of the Leahy Law, which prohibits military assistance to foreign forces involved in human rights abuses.

This lawsuit emerges amid a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where approximately 45,000 Palestinians have reportedly died since the onset of the conflict initiated by Hamas on October 7, 2023.

The legal complaint includes serious allegations such as torture, forced disappearances, and actions amounting to genocide in Gaza.

Lead plaintiff Said Assali expressed that his family has suffered immensely due to the State Department's failure to enforce its own laws regarding military aid.

Prominent figures behind the Leahy Law support the lawsuit, citing the rising death toll in Gaza as a critical factor.

Despite internal concerns regarding Israel's military actions, the Biden administration has continued its strong support for Israel, providing over $12.5 billion in military aid since the war began.

Investigations have revealed that U.S. officials have acknowledged incidents of human rights violations by Israeli forces but have implemented measures allowing continued military support.

A May report from the State Department indicated reasonable evidence that Israel's use of U.S.-supplied weapons may have violated international humanitarian law, yet the administration refrained from limiting arms transfers.

The issue of U.S. military support for Israel amidst civilian casualties has been contentious in political discourse, affecting voter sentiments among Arab and Muslim communities.

While Israel claims to take measures to minimize civilian harm, the Biden administration has urged Israel to do more to protect civilians during its military operations.

As the lawsuit unfolds, it highlights the broader implications of U.S. foreign policy and military aid in the context of ongoing violence and humanitarian crises.

The case is backed by the nonprofit Democracy for the Arab World Now, founded by journalist Jamal Khashoggi, emphasizing the need for accountability and adherence to international law.