According to Statista Research, as of April 16th:
Through retaliation attacks by the Israeli armed forces against Hamas in Gaza, 33,797 Palestinians were killed, and 76,465 were injured. As of April 15th 2024, the number of Palestinian deaths in the West Bank was 432, due to the on going conflict.
A huge number of deaths are non-voters — who are in no way responsible for the actions of Hamas — who happen to be children.
According to the UN, as of March 13th:
This war is a war on children. It is a war on their childhood and their future,” said UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, who described as “staggering” the latest Gaza health authority data indicating that at least 12,300 youngsters have died in the enclave in the last four months....
I realize Hamas is a criminal organization. I realize Israel has a right to defend its citizens. And I also realize the Palestinian people have numerous, legitimate grievances against the Israeli government.
But nothing justifies the slaughter of those who don't bear arms, otherwise known as non-combatants.
To slaughter civilians is also illegal.
According to the Geneva Convention:
The Additional Protocol I prohibits indiscriminate attacks or reprisals against the civilian persons, their objects, and objects necessary to their survival.[13]
Being against a right-wing, extremist Israeli government is not Anti-Semetic anymore than being against right-wing, extremist government in the United States is anti-Christian.
The Russians deliberate targeting of civilians in Ukraine is wrong and criminal as was the United States targeting of civilians in Viet Nam and Cambodia. The Israeli government's targeting of civilians in Gaza is just as wrong and criminal.
No government is above international law! All governments are equal before international law!
With the notable exception of President Jimmy Carter, no United States President has been willing to do the hard work to justify all the billions and billions of military aid that constantly goes to Israel, year-in and year-out.
That has got to stop! Those are my tax dollars and your tax dollars that are now supporting directly — and/or indirectly — the slaughter of children and other non-combatants.
I ask the Palestinian people for forgiveness for any role my — or my family and friend’s — Federal taxes has contributed to the ongoing horrors taking place in Gaza!
I’m also proud of anyone who is willing to protest against the abuse of power whether it be caused by Americans, Russians, Hamas or Israelis! Never stop speaking truth to power!
Here’s a list of VETTED Relief Organizations working in Gaza that you can support. I have money automatically taken out of my checking account every month. Maybe you could also do the same?