Israel Bans UNRWA; International Outcry Over Gaza Airstrike Killing 88, Mostly Women and Children
October 31, 2024Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict continue, with mediators from Qatar, the USA, and Egypt involved, although progress has stalled amid Israeli pessimism regarding negotiations with Hamas.
There are discussions about the Israeli military potentially taking over the distribution of humanitarian aid, although this could pose risks to soldiers.
Lazzarini warned that the implementation of the work ban on UNRWA would create a vacuum in essential services, leading to more deaths and a disaster for the Palestinian people.
The UN and the US State Department have called for investigations into the attacks, expressing deep concern over the humanitarian situation and the treatment of civilians.
Discrepancies between reported casualties and military observations have raised questions about the clarity of the situation on the ground.
Approximately 40 individuals remain unaccounted for beneath the rubble of the destroyed building, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
The recent airstrike in Beit Lahia resulted in at least 88 reported deaths, primarily among women and children, according to officials from Hamas.
Israel's parliament has enacted a work ban on the Palestinian relief organization UNRWA, drawing international criticism amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The French government condemned the airstrike, supporting claims of significant civilian casualties and criticizing the ongoing violations of civilian protection principles.
This airstrike has led to widespread condemnation from the international community, with calls for an end to the war and a reassessment of military strategies that disproportionately affect civilians.
The Israeli military acknowledged reports of civilian harm and stated that it is investigating the incident, while asserting that the targeted area is an 'active combat zone.'
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged Israel to respond carefully to provocations amid escalating tensions in the region.
Summary based on 44 sources
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Sources
The New York Times • Oct 29, 2024
What Are the Implications of Israel Banning UNRWA?BBC News • Oct 29, 2024
Gazans fear Israel's key UN aid agency ban makes life harderBBC News • Oct 29, 2024
What is Unrwa and why has Israel banned it?BBC News • Oct 30, 2024
Deadly Israeli strike targeted 'spotter' on Beit Lahia building's roof, official says