UNHCR Condemns Israel’s Gaza Hospital Attack as Unacceptable

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EU Condemns Attack on Gaza Hospital,Calls for Violence to End

Brussels,Belgium – The European Union Commission issued a strong condemnation Tuesday following an Israeli attack on Nasser hospital in southern Gaza Strip on Monday. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals, including five journalists.

“Civilians and journalists must be protected under international law,” stated Anwar Al-Anouni, UNHCR spokesperson, during a press conference. He further emphasized the urgent need to de-escalate the escalating conflict stating, “Civilians have been suffering in Gaza for a long time, and it is time to break the circle of violence.”

The incident has reignited global concerns regarding the protection of civilians and media personnel operating in conflict zones. This latest event underscores the complex challenges of adhering to international humanitarian principles amidst ongoing hostilities.The Escalating Crisis in Gaza

The Gaza strip has been a focal point of conflict for decades.Recent escalations have resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, affecting both the civilian population and those working to report on the situation. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reports that, as of November 2023, at least 79 journalists and media workers have been killed since the conflict began. This highlights the increasing dangers faced by those attempting to document events in the region.

| Conflict Region | Estimated Civilian Deaths (2023-2024) | Key Humanitarian Concerns |
|—|—|—|
| Gaza Strip | Over 30,000 | Access to medical care, food insecurity, displacement |
| West Bank | Over 500 | Restrictive movement, settler violence, demolitions |
| Syria | 150,000+ | Ongoing civil war, refugee crisis, limited aid access |

Did You Know? The protection of medical facilities and journalists under international law is enshrined in the geneva Conventions. Deliberate attacks on these entities can constitute war crimes.

What is the Role of International humanitarian Law?

International Humanitarian Law (IHL) sets the rules of conduct during armed conflict. It aims to minimize suffering and protect those not participating in hostilities, including civilians, medical personnel, and journalists. Organizations like the International committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) play a vital role in promoting and monitoring compliance with IHL.

Pro Tip: Stay informed about the ongoing situation in Gaza by consulting reputable sources such as the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian affairs (OCHA) and the ICRC.The EU Commission’s statement reflects a growing international pressure for a cessation of hostilities and a renewed commitment to protecting vulnerable populations in Gaza. The ongoing violence demands urgent action to uphold international law and ensure the safety of all those affected.

(Prepared by Muhammad Ali Faraj for the Arab Bulletin – Edited by Marwa Gharib)

What specific international law does the UNHCR cite as being violated by the attack on Al-Ahli Hospital?

The Al-Ahli Arab Hospital Blast: A Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

On October 17, 2023, a devastating explosion ripped through the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, resulting in a significant loss of life and injuries. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) swiftly and unequivocally condemned the attack, labeling it “unacceptable.” This incident represents a harrowing escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, and underscores the urgent need for protection of civilians and humanitarian infrastructure in Gaza. Initial reports indicated hundreds of fatalities, including patients, medical staff, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) seeking refuge within the hospital grounds.

UNHCR’s Immediate response & Concerns

The UNHCR’s response has been multi-faceted, focusing on:

Condemnation & Calls for Investigation: Strongly denouncing the attack and demanding a thorough, self-reliant investigation to determine the circumstances and hold those responsible accountable. The call for accountability aligns with international humanitarian law.

Emergency Assistance: Working with partners to provide immediate medical supplies, emergency shelter, and psychosocial support to survivors and those affected by the blast. This includes bolstering existing aid efforts for Palestinian refugees.

Protection of Civilians: Reiterating the paramount importance of protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, in accordance with international law. The UNHCR emphasizes that hospitals are protected under the Geneva Conventions.

Increased Needs Assessment: Conducting rapid needs assessments to understand the full extent of the damage and the evolving humanitarian needs in Gaza. This is crucial for effective aid delivery.

The Impact on Palestinian Refugees & IDPs

The Al-Ahli Hospital was a critical lifeline for Gaza’s population, notably the large number of Palestinian refugees registered with UNRWA (United Nations relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East). Before the attack, the hospital was already overwhelmed with casualties from the escalating conflict.

Overcrowding & Limited Resources: Hospitals in Gaza were operating at maximum capacity, facing severe shortages of medical supplies, fuel, and personnel before the explosion.

Displacement Crisis: The attack has exacerbated the existing displacement crisis, forcing even more civilians to seek shelter in already overcrowded UNRWA schools and facilities. Gaza’s infrastructure is severely strained.

Psychological Trauma: The blast has inflicted profound psychological trauma on survivors, witnesses, and the wider community. Long-term mental health support will be essential.

vulnerable Populations: The impact is particularly devastating for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

International Humanitarian Law & Hospital attacks

Attacking a hospital is a grave violation of international humanitarian law (IHL), also known as the laws of war. Key principles relevant to this situation include:

1. Distinction: Parties to a conflict must distinguish between military objectives and civilian objects. Hospitals are considered civilian objects and are not legitimate military targets.
2. Proportionality: Even if a military target is located near a civilian object, any attack must be proportionate, meaning the anticipated military advantage must outweigh the expected harm to civilians.
3. Precautions in Attack: All feasible precautions must be taken to avoid or minimize harm to civilians.
4. Protection of Medical Personnel: Medical personnel and facilities are entitled to special protection under IHL.

UNHCR’s Broader Work in Gaza & the Region

The UNHCR’s work extends beyond emergency response. The organization provides crucial support to Palestinian refugees throughout the region,including:

Legal Protection: Assisting refugees with legal documentation,registration,and access to justice.

Education: supporting access to education for refugee children.

Livelihoods: Providing vocational training and livelihood opportunities to help refugees become self-reliant.

Advocacy: Advocating for the rights of refugees and raising awareness about their plight.

You can learn more about UNHCR’s work through their Learning Portal.

The Role of UNRWA in the Gaza Crisis

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) plays a vital role in providing essential services to Palestinian refugees in Gaza. UNRWA operates schools, healthcare clinics, and provides direct assistance to hundreds of thousands of refugees. The agency has faced significant challenges, including funding shortages and restrictions on access.the attack on Al-Ahli Hospital highlights the critical need for continued support for UNRWA’s operations.

How to Help: Supporting UNHCR’s Efforts

Individuals and organizations can support UNHCR’s work in Gaza and for Palestinian refugees through:

Donations: Financial contributions can provide vital assistance to those affected by the conflict. Visit the UNHCR website to donate: https://www.unhcr.org/

Advocacy: Raising awareness about the situation in Gaza and advocating for the protection of civilians.

* Supporting Partner Organizations: Donating to or volunteering with organizations working alongside UNHCR to provide assistance.