I am deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Palestine, particularly following Sen. Celeste Maloy’s recent endorsement of Israel during her visit to Jerusalem.
Reports from Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International suggest that actions by the Israeli government may constitute violations of international law, including potential war crimes. These concerns are exacerbated by the recent expressions of support from our leaders.
Key issues include:
• Confiscation of essential resources: Israel has restricted access to vital resources like water and electricity in Gaza, potentially violating international protections for occupied territories (Human Rights Watch, 2023).
• Starvation as a weapon: Intentional destruction of Gaza’s agricultural infrastructure impedes civilian access to food, using starvation as a warfare tactic (Human Rights Watch, 2023).
• Indiscriminate attacks on civilians: High civilian casualties from these attacks warrant investigations as potential war crimes (Amnesty International, 2023).
• Targeting of medical facilities: Continuous strikes on hospitals throughout October and November 2023 have crippled Gaza’s healthcare system (Human Rights Watch, 2023; United Nations reports).
• Denial of humanitarian access: Severe restrictions on humanitarian aid exacerbate the health care and food crises (United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 2023).
These documented actions are troubling, especially given the perceived endorsement by our senators. Their stances have significant implications for our community’s values and the U.S.’s international reputation.
It is crucial that our foreign policy reflects a firm commitment to human rights and the rule of law, principles our community staunchly supports.
Anna Zumwalt, Salt Lake City
