Since the start of the Arab-Israeli conflict, one of the main stages of warfare has been the Gaza Strip. Over the past decade, Palestinians living in the area have suffered from a blockade, labor-intensive checkpoints, and fierce conflict between the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Gaza militants. The situation has become increasingly tense as the IDF has sought to retaliate against Hamas’ rocket barrage since Operation Protective Edge in 2014.
Recently, a growing chorus of international observers has been calling on the Israeli government to protect the lives of innocent civilians, even in the face of intensified hostilities and Hamas’ utilization of human shields. Among those most vocal is Ambassador Daniel Sullivan, the former ambassador to Israel and recent United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process.
Ambassador Sullivan’s proposal is simple: an unequivocal commitment to protect innocent civilians in the Gaza Strip. In making the case for Israeli restraint, Sullivan points to the added difficulty that arises from Hamas’ utilization of human shields, which could be used to mask militant activities and shield them from the IDF’s retaliatory measures.
Furthermore, Sullivan’s call for protection extends beyond Gaza. He recently argued that Israel should both protect Palestinian civilians in the West Bank and ensure that those living in the Israeli-controlled area of Palestine have access to fair and just services, such as healthcare and education.
Sullivan’s argument for protection is not only well-reasoned, it is also shared by others throughout the United Nations. In July 2019, the UN Secretary-General stated that all parties should comply with international law and protect civilians, including those held as human shields.
The devastating conflict that has ravaged the Gaza Strip since 2014 has left a humanitarian crisis in its wake. Now more than ever, innocent civilians need protection from all sides and a long-term commitment from the Israeli government to safeguard their security. Sullivan’s call for a firm commitment to protect civilians in the region is an important step in ensuring that this happens.