The international community must prioritize civilian protection amid escalating violence in Israel and Gaza.

The horrific Hamas attacks on southern Israel have unleashed devastating violence, leaving deep emotional scars. As the full scale of the massacre emerges, including the slaughter of young festival-goers, families, and the abduction of the elderly, the sense of shock only grows. Over 1,200 Israelis have died, with President Isaac Herzog stating, “Not since the Holocaust have so many Jews been killed in one day.”

While Israel has the right to defend itself, the current actions must be within the boundaries of international law. The laws of war must be respected, and civilians must be protected. Palestinians are not Hamas, and with nearly half of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents being children, their lives must not be further endangered. Israel’s airstrikes, including indiscriminate bombings and the destruction of vital infrastructure, have caused significant casualties. Over 1,100 Palestinians have died, including 326 children.

The suffering of Palestinians in Gaza is compounded by the blockade, cutting off food, water, medicine, and electricity. These actions breach international law, as emphasized by UN human rights officials. Efforts to create an aid corridor and secure civilian protection must be a top priority. Additionally, the threat of further escalation looms, with Hezbollah warning of its potential involvement and regional tensions rising.

Amid this tragedy, it is alarming to see some using the situation to push their own agendas. The spread of disinformation, particularly on social media, exacerbates the crisis. The international community must unite to protect civilian lives and prevent the conflict from spiraling further.