Hamas demands an international probe into Israel’s use of banned weapons in Gaza, as death tolls rise. With over 44,000 Palestinians dead, the need for accountability grows.
The situation in Gaza has escalated significantly, with Hamas now calling for the formation of an international committee to investigate the use of internationally prohibited weapons by Israel in the northern Gaza Strip. According to testimonies from Palestinian civilians and medical professionals, these weapons are causing horrific effects—some reports claim they are even causing bodies to evaporate upon impact. This shocking claim has raised alarm worldwide, with mounting casualties and widespread devastation.
As the military conflict continues, the human cost of this war is becoming more apparent with each passing day, with thousands of Palestinians dead and injured, and international calls for accountability growing louder. Below, we explore the key events and developments surrounding these allegations.
Hamas’ Allegations: The Banned Weapons
- International Committee Demand: Hamas has strongly called for an international investigation into the use of prohibited weapons in Gaza by Israel. The group asserts that testimonies from citizens and doctors reveal disturbing details about Israel's military tactics in the region.
- What Are These Alleged Weapons?: The weapons in question are said to be capable of causing instant vaporization of human bodies, leaving no trace. These claims have been supported by testimonies from those in the region who have witnessed the aftermath of these attacks.
- “Brutal Extermination Campaign”: Hamas refers to Israel's actions as part of a brutal extermination campaign, ongoing for over 53 days. According to their statements, these weapons are primarily targeting civilians, contributing to massive casualties and devastation.
The Growing Casualty Toll
- Rising Death Toll in Gaza: As of the most recent reports from the Palestinian Health Ministry, 44,382 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023, and 105,142 have been injured.
- How Does This Compare to Israel?: In contrast, Israel has lost 1,139 lives, with over 200 people taken captive by Hamas on the same day.
- Gaza vs. Israel: The disparity in death tolls between the two sides is staggering—44,382 Palestinians vs. 1,139 Israelis. This stark difference underscores the devastating impact on Gaza, where civilian casualties continue to rise at an alarming rate.
- In Lebanon: The death toll from Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon has also been significant, with 3,961 people killed and 16,520 injured since the beginning of the conflict.
Testimonies from Medical and Civil Defense Teams
- Dr. Munir Al-Bursh’s Statement: Dr. Munir Al-Bursh, Director of the Ministry of Health in Gaza, has claimed that Israel is using weapons “never seen before”. According to him, the results of these weapons are so extreme that they cause individuals to vaporize instantly.
- Civil Defense’s Report: Civil Defense officials reported that 1,760 Palestinians had completely disintegrated, with no remains left behind, which they attribute to the use of these banned weapons.
The International Community’s Response
- Call for Accountability: The rising accusations of war crimes have led to calls for international accountability. If these claims are verified, the use of prohibited weapons could violate international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions.
- What Does International Law Say?: International humanitarian law prohibits the use of weapons that cause excessive suffering and have indiscriminate effects on civilian populations. The Geneva Conventions and other treaties aim to protect civilians from such attacks, yet the alleged use of these weapons by Israel would constitute a direct breach of these laws.
Humanitarian Aid Crisis
- UNRWA Suspends Aid: UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) has been forced to halt its aid deliveries through the Karem Abu Salem crossing (also known as Kerem Shalom) between Israel and Gaza, citing growing security concerns.
- Impact on Civilians: The suspension of aid delivery has intensified the humanitarian crisis, leaving civilians with limited access to essential goods, including food, medicine, and shelter.
- The Growing Humanitarian Disaster: With the war causing extensive damage to infrastructure, international organizations are struggling to provide sufficient relief, and civilians in Gaza are facing severe shortages.
Diplomatic Efforts for Ceasefire
- Hamas Delegation in Cairo: In light of the ongoing violence, a Hamas delegation is currently in Cairo, engaging in ceasefire negotiations. These talks are part of a broader effort to secure a halt to hostilities, though previous ceasefire attempts have faltered, often violated by Israeli military actions.
- Hezbollah Ceasefire: Interestingly, a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has largely held, despite Israel's military violations. This raises questions about whether similar agreements can be reached for Gaza.
Sources: Maktoob Media & Al Jazeera.
