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My support for Israel is no surprise at this point. As a sovereign nation, it is my opinion that Israel has a right and a responsibility to defend itself against threats of terrorism. However recent developments cause me to write expressing my concern for what appears to be, for a lack of better terms, irresponsible warfare on behalf of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).
First, on Tuesday, January 6, the IDF fired rockets at a UN School that was being used as a refugee shelter. About 40 civilians were killed in that incident according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. The IDF first said it believed it was firing at Palestinian militants who were operating at the school. Today it says the rockets were aiming somewhere else, but missed its target and hit the school.
Also today, it was reported that the IDF may be using white phosphorus in the bombs and rockets its using in the war against Hamas. White phosphorus is a chemical that is legal in the rules for international warfare. It can cause serious burns to the skin, even causing it to peel off. It can also be used to ignite fire.
In regards to the first incident, I understand that mistakes happen. It's certainly unfortunate, particularly when you talk about the loss of life in children. However the IDF is using some of the most sophisticaed technology created and should be doing everything it can to avoid civilian casualties, especially when the international world is watching with a critical eye. Striking refugee camps is simply unacceptable and the IDF must double, triple, and quadruple check its coordinates and intelligence before engaging in a battle that could result in a substantial loss of civilian life.
The white phosphorus is another situation that is just not acceptable. Even though it is allowed in international warfare, it does not have to be used. The situation would be different if the IDF were dealing with an army that distinguished itself from the civilian population. However Hamas has a track record of hiding among the civilian population, meaning the risk is far too great to use such a dangerous chemical.
Finally, Israel has to do more to get aid to the people of Gaza. I applaud the daily 3 hour cease-fire and lifting of the blockade to allow for essential supplies to get to the people. However given the scope of the humanitarian crisis, I'm not sure that is enough. The government needs to better coordinate with international aid groups to safely get more aid to the people for more than 3 hours a day.
Israel should defend itself. But with the rest of the world watching and being critical of the IDF, it needs to be done tactfully and responsibly.
Thoughts?
I'm definitely with you on that like 9000%
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