A Global Call for Justice
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels, raising urgent questions about international accountability and the enforcement of human rights standards. For years, Israel's blockade of Gaza has severely restricted access to essential supplies, leaving millions of Palestinians in dire conditions. These actions, widely regarded as "collective punishment," are in direct violation of international humanitarian law, specifically Article 33 of the Fourth Geneva Convention.
A Century-Long Tug-of-War
In 1850, Palestine was home to approximately 500,000 inhabitants, predominantly Arabs. The population consisted of 400,000 Muslims (80%), 75,000 Christians, and 25,000 Jews, alongside a small Druze community. For centuries, these groups lived in relative harmony. However, the late 19th century brought a significant shift with the emergence of Zionism—a political movement advocating for the establishment of a Jewish state in response to discrimination and violence faced by Jews in Europe. Initially, various territories were considered for this endeavor, but the Zionists ultimately chose Palestine.