Israel Faces Condemnation For Deadly Strikes In Gaza

Palestinians pray next to the bodies of their relatives killed in an Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip, at the Al Aqsa hospital in Deir al Balah, central Gaza Strip, on Monday, May 27, 2024. (AP P

Israel has come under increased international criticism for its recent strikes on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, resulting in the deaths of at least 45 Palestinians, including displaced individuals living in tents that were consumed by fire. The strikes have raised concerns about civilian casualties, with even close allies like the United States expressing outrage at the loss of innocent lives.

Israeli officials maintain that they adhere to international law, despite facing scrutiny in various courts. The recent attack in Rafah, which claimed numerous lives, has pushed the overall Palestinian death toll in the conflict above 36,000, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

The Gaza Health Ministry reported that around half of the deceased were women, children, and elderly individuals. The aftermath of the strikes has left a devastating impact on the community, with many families displaced and children sifting through the debris.

Concerns raised over civilian casualties in Gaza conflict.

Israel criticized for strikes in Rafah causing civilian deaths.

International condemnation of Israeli attacks in Rafah.

Israeli officials defend actions, facing legal scrutiny.

Gaza Health Ministry reports high civilian death toll.

Calls for immediate ceasefire and respect for international law.

Humanitarian crisis in Gaza with displaced population and hunger.

Humanitarian crisis in Gaza with displaced population and hunger.

Israeli military acknowledged civilian casualties, initiated criminal probes.

Criticism of Israeli military actions for potential long-term consequences.

Ongoing conflict draws international attention and urgent calls for action.

International condemnation of the violence has been swift, with France, Italy, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, and others denouncing the attacks. Calls for an immediate ceasefire and respect for international law have been echoed by world leaders.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended the military actions, citing the need to target Hamas militants in Rafah. However, critics argue that the bombings will have long-lasting repercussions and could fuel further animosity.

The Israeli military's top legal official acknowledged the civilian casualties and stated that investigations into the incidents were underway. The military expressed regret over the loss of innocent lives and emphasized the challenges of conducting operations in a conflict of such magnitude.

Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court is pursuing arrest warrants against Israeli leaders and Hamas members over alleged war crimes. Israel denies accusations of genocide and asserts its commitment to upholding the laws of war.

The ongoing conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with a significant portion of the population displaced and facing severe hunger. The situation has drawn international attention and calls for urgent action to address the escalating violence and humanitarian needs.

For more updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict, visit AP's coverage.