US Calls for Compliance with Humanitarian Law in Gaza Amid Rising Tensions

The ongoing conflict in Gaza sees increased scrutiny over humanitarian laws, as the U.S. urges all parties to uphold their obligations under international statutes amidst mounting casualties.

In the wake of a mass grave discovery in Gaza that included the bodies of 15 individuals such as paramedics and a United Nations worker, the United States has reiterated its expectation that "all parties on the ground" comply with international humanitarian law. However, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce refrained from commenting on whether the U.S. was conducting its own investigation into the Israeli military's actions that led to these fatalities.

Bruce placed accountability primarily on Hamas, stating, "Every single thing that happens in Gaza is happening because of Hamas." The UN has reported that on March 23, five ambulances, a fire truck, and a UN vehicle were systematically attacked, resulting in the tragic loss of lives, including those of first responders. The remains of these individuals were later handled inappropriately and interred in a mass grave.

The Israeli military defended its operations by asserting that its forces targeted vehicles that were moving suspiciously without lights or emergency signaling, claiming that Hamas operatives were among those who perished in the strike. Nevertheless, they did not address reports regarding the collection of bodies following the tragic incidents.

International humanitarian law explicitly forbids the targeting of civilians, placing particular emphasis on safeguarding medical personnel. As the United States maintains its position as Israel's largest arms supplier, it is also bound by its legal constraints that prevent American weapons from being utilized in contexts that violate humanitarian principles.

Jonathan Whittall, head of the UN's humanitarian agency in Gaza, expressed profound outrage over the deaths of the medical staff, stating, "It's an absolute horror what has happened here," as he highlighted the fact that healthcare workers should never be targets in conflict scenarios.

Since renewing a military offensive at the end of March, following stalled ceasefire negotiations with Hamas, the situation has escalated dramatically. Reports indicate that over 1,000 individuals have been killed in Gaza amid renewed violence. This military campaign was initiated in retaliation for a devastating cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and the hostage-taking of 251 individuals. The humanitarian toll has been severe, with the Hamas-controlled health ministry estimating over 50,350 lives lost in Gaza since the violence erupted.