Flagrant Violations of the Laws of War: A Dangerous Precedent in the Middle East Conflict
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly following Hamas’s deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2022, has raised alarming concerns among humanitarian workers regarding the blatant violations of international humanitarian law (IHL). As the situation escalates, aid workers warn that the disregard for established laws of war is setting a perilous precedent that could have far-reaching implications for future conflicts.
The Context of the Conflict
Since the onset of hostilities, the humanitarian landscape in the region has deteriorated dramatically. Marwan Jilani, vice president of the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PCRS), highlighted the severity of the situation during a recent meeting in Geneva, where representatives from 191 national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies gathered to discuss the crisis. Jilani lamented a "total disregard for human life" and a systematic flouting of IHL, stating, "The rules of war are being broken in such a flagrant way… it is setting a precedent that we have not seen in any other conflict."
The PCRS, with over 900 staff and thousands of volunteers operating in Gaza, faces immense challenges as they strive to deliver aid amidst the chaos. According to the Hamas-ruled territory’s health ministry, more than 43,000 Palestinians have been killed, and the United Nations reports that virtually the entire population has been displaced. The humanitarian workers themselves are not immune to the violence; many have lost family members, and the risks they face are compounded by the ongoing conflict.
Targeting of Humanitarian Workers
One of the most alarming aspects of the conflict is the reported "deliberate targeting of the health sector." Jilani emphasized that many PCRS staff, including doctors and nurses, have been detained, tortured, or killed while performing their duties. Since the war began, 34 PCRS staff and volunteers have lost their lives in Gaza, with two additional fatalities in the West Bank. The situation is dire, with four staff members still unaccounted for, their whereabouts and conditions unknown.
Israel, on the other hand, has rejected accusations of targeting humanitarian workers, asserting that its military operations are conducted in accordance with international law. However, the testimonies from aid workers paint a different picture, raising serious concerns about the safety of those trying to provide assistance in conflict zones.
The Ripple Effects of Disregarding International Law
Uri Shacham, chief of staff at Israel’s emergency aid organization Magen David Adom (MDA), echoed similar concerns regarding the protection of humanitarian workers. He recounted the tragic events of October 7, when MDA staff rushing to assist victims were also killed. Shacham expressed disbelief at the targeting of humanitarians, warning that such actions could lead to a dangerous precedent where the protection of aid workers is no longer guaranteed.
"The biggest concern is that once the barrier was broken, then this might be something that others would do," he cautioned. The implications of this erosion of respect for IHL extend beyond the immediate conflict, potentially influencing how future wars are conducted.
The Situation in Lebanon
The conflict’s ramifications are not confined to Gaza; neighboring Lebanon is also experiencing escalating violence. The Red Cross in Lebanon has condemned the increasing disregard for IHL, noting that 13 of its volunteers have been injured during ambulance missions. While these incidents may not appear to be direct attacks, the inability to reach injured individuals due to missile strikes near ambulances constitutes a violation of international law.
Samar Abou Jaoudeh, a top official with the Lebanese Red Cross, expressed fears that Lebanon could face a scenario similar to that of Gaza. With at least 1,620 people reported killed in Lebanon since September 23, the humanitarian situation is becoming increasingly precarious. The Lebanese Red Cross is preparing for various scenarios, hoping to avert a full-scale humanitarian disaster.
Conclusion: A Call for Accountability
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of international humanitarian law and the dire consequences of its violation. As humanitarian workers on the ground continue to face unprecedented risks, the international community must take urgent action to uphold the principles of IHL and protect those who are dedicated to alleviating human suffering.
The alarming trend of flagrant violations of the laws of war not only endangers lives today but also threatens the very foundation of humanitarian principles for future generations. It is imperative that all parties involved in the conflict recognize their obligations under international law and work towards a resolution that prioritizes the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers alike. The time for accountability is now, before the precedent of impunity becomes entrenched in the fabric of warfare.