Introduction
Modern conflicts are increasingly ignoring the basic rules of humanitarianism, resulting in high civilian casualties.
How the recent long-term conflicts, particularly in Gaza and Ukraine, reflect a disregard for human rights, with warring nations targeting civilians indiscriminately.
The Israeli Defence Forces: A Historical Perspective
Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have historically been recognized for their military professionalism, particularly during the June 1967 and 1973 wars. In 1967, the IDF swiftly defeated larger forces on multiple fronts within six days.
In 1973, despite being surprised, the IDF's counter-offensive, led by General Ariel Sharon, forced a ceasefire when all seemed lost. Given this reputation, expectations were high for a swift response to the October 7, 2023 incident involving Hamas.
The Current Conflict in Gaza
Despite mobilizing 350,000 troops and deploying various military assets, the IDF has made little headway in Gaza. The densely populated and built-up area of Gaza, controlled by Hamas, presents significant challenges.
The IDF faces allegations of human rights violations, with over 37,000 civilian fatalities reported. The humanitarian crisis is severe, with shortages of food, water, shelter, and medicine.
The Deterioration of War Ethics
War is inherently immoral, but the inability of warring nations to follow humanitarian rules exacerbates the suffering. Both the Gaza conflict and the war in Ukraine show a blatant disregard for civilian lives.
The US and NATO, despite their roles as champions of human rights, have not done enough to mitigate civilian casualties.
The Role of Hamas
The October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas was a significant act of terror, designed to draw international attention to the Palestinian cause. This act resulted in over a thousand civilian deaths, further complicating the conflict.
Hamas, a quasi-state actor, has entrenched itself in Gaza, making it difficult for Israel to respond without causing widespread civilian casualties.
Israel’s Strategic Failures
Israel's military strategy in Gaza has faced criticism for failing to innovate and adapt to the challenges posed by irregular warfare. The IDF’s reputation for quick, effective responses has been tarnished.
Israel's failure to monitor and prevent the buildup of Hamas's military capabilities, including over 100,000 missiles and rockets, raises questions about its intelligence and strategic planning.
The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is dire. Withholding humanitarian aid and targeting civilian areas have led to widespread suffering. The past professionalism of the IDF should have guided it to avoid such tactics.
The more civilians are harmed, the longer the conflict is likely to last, making a ceasefire less effective in achieving lasting peace.
International Reactions
President Joe Biden has been forced to support Israel, despite the political costs
The US faces criticism for not doing enough to prevent civilian casualties. There is a perception that a change in Israeli leadership could lead to a different strategy, focusing on the release of hostages and allowing space for diplomatic talks.
The War in Ukraine
The conflict in Ukraine also exemplifies the changing rules of war. Both sides have been accused of targeting civilians, with the US and NATO failing to ensure the protection of non-combatants.
The prolonged nature of the conflict has led to significant humanitarian concerns, similar to those in Gaza.
The Need for Humanitarian Interventions
There is an urgent need for international humanitarian interventions in both Gaza and Ukraine.
Political and military leaders must prioritize the protection of civilians and adhere to international humanitarian laws
The global community must pressure all parties to cease targeting civilians and allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need.
Conclusion
The evolving nature of modern conflicts highlights a troubling trend of ignoring humanitarian principles.
The wars in Gaza and Ukraine demonstrate the urgent need for a renewed commitment to protecting civilians and adhering to the rules of war.
International actors, particularly the US and NATO, must lead efforts to mitigate civilian casualties and promote peace.
(Gaza conflict, Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), Hamas attacks, humanitarian crisis in Gaza war in Ukraine, civilian casualties, international humanitarian law, US and NATO response, modern warfare ethics, human rights violations, UPSC, CAPF, CDS, NDA, SSB, AFCAT, CSE, IAS, IB ACIO, Current Affairs, News )
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