Eran Etzion, a former deputy head of Israel’s National Security Council, is raising concerns over Israel’s military conduct in Gaza. A longstanding critic of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Etzion is respected for his years of service under four Israeli prime ministers. He now warns that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) might be committing war crimes in northern Gaza.
Etzion believes that Israeli soldiers should reject illegal orders if they are expected to commit actions that could be considered war crimes. “They should refuse,” he says. “If I were a soldier, I would refuse, and I think any Israeli soldier should do the same.”
He shares these views from his home in central Israel, far from the conflict zone. However, less than 40 miles away, Jabalia in Gaza is experiencing relentless Israeli military offensives. Civilians and medical staff are suffering due to lack of resources.
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Medical Staff in Gaza’s Desperate Situation
Doctors at the Indonesian Hospital in Jabalia are pleading for international help. One nurse describes the conditions as unbearable, stating, “We don’t have water, and we don’t know what will happen tomorrow.” The Israeli siege has severely impacted the area, leaving medical staff exhausted and supplies depleted.
Thousands of people are fleeing Jabalia as the Israeli army continues its offensive. Etzion expresses concern over the suffering of civilians, warning that Israel’s actions could lead to a dangerous erosion of moral norms. He acknowledges the trauma caused by Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, but stresses that Israel must adhere to international law.
Israel has faced increasing international criticism for its actions in Gaza. The United States has threatened to cut arms shipments unless aid is allowed into Gaza. The UN has accused Israel of blocking humanitarian assistance, particularly in northern Gaza.
The IDF denies these allegations, maintaining that it operates according to international law. Israel also accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields, launching attacks from schools and medical facilities.
International Law Experts Weigh In
Prominent war crimes lawyer, Prof Philippe Sands KC, says Israel is violating international law despite its right to self-defense. He emphasizes the need for proportionality and adherence to international humanitarian law. Sands, who has led genocide cases, warns that what is happening in Gaza now could be considered war crimes.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is reportedly seeking arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Netanyahu and the defense minister.
Israel’s Official Position
The IDF continues to reject allegations of war crimes and insists it follows international law. Israel’s humanitarian relief wing, COGAT, states that its policy is to facilitate the entry of aid into Gaza.
As the conflict continues, scenes of civilian suffering in Gaza challenge Israel’s narrative. Critics, including Etzion, urge the country to act within international law to maintain its standing in the global community.
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