In brief
As the humanitarian crisis intensifies in Gaza, former Israeli security adviser Eran Etzion urges soldiers to refrain from executing orders that could constitute war crimes, while expressing concern about Israel's military actions and their impact on civilians.
In the midst of escalating conflict in Gaza, a former security adviser to Israel’s government has made a significant appeal to members of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Eran Etzion, who served under four prime ministers and held the position of deputy head of the National Security Council, warns that Israeli military operations in northern Gaza may be infringing upon international law. "If a soldier or an officer is expected to commit something that might be suspected as a war crime, they must refuse," Etzion stated during a recent interview.The war has resulted in dire humanitarian conditions, with reports from Jabalia underscoring the urgent need for aid. Medical staff have revealed severe shortages of essentials, as one exhausted nurse from the Indonesian Hospital conveyed through a voice note that the medical team is struggling to cope with relentless privations. “We contacted the Israeli force to allow us water, but they don't accept that,” he lamented, highlighting the desperate situation that has left local hospitals overwhelmed.As tens of thousands of civilians flee Jabalia amidst ongoing military operations, Etzion reflects on the dangerous mindset that has developed in Israel following the traumatic events of the October 7 attack by Hamas, which claimed numerous Israeli lives. He urges for adherence to international standards of conduct, noting, "We’re a sovereign country... we must operate under international law if we want to remain part of the international community."International criticism of Israel’s military tactics has grown, with the U.S. and the United Nations voicing concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Despite the IDF denying any accusations of starvation tactics, the number of civilians impacted continues to rise progressively.Acclaimed war crimes lawyer, Prof. Philippe Sands, echoed similar sentiments regarding the legality of Israel's operations. He pointed to the need for military actions to adhere to the principles of proportionality and distinction between combatants and civilians.In the face of dire circumstances in Gaza, concerns about the future of international law persist. As debates continue, the IDF has since responded to inquiries regarding its actions, reiterating its commitment to international law and the facilitation of humanitarian aid.This appeal from Etzion underlines the growing urgency for ethical considerations in military conduct as the humanitarian toll rises amid geopolitical complexities. The dialogue surrounding the conflict showcases the need for a meaningful reckoning with the principles of justice and humanitarian standards in modern warfare.
