Freelance journalist Akram Al Satarri and Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent Imran Khan discuss the Israeli airstrike in Rafah, leading to global condemnation. They address the tragic events, challenges of aid delivery, and the complexities of accountability amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Israel's continued attacks in Rafah despite international condemnation raise concerns about safe zones and civilian casualties.
Obstacles in aid delivery to Gaza highlight political issues affecting humanitarian efforts and accountability for Israeli actions.
Deep dives
Israel's Deadly Airstrikes in Gaza
Israel faced condemnation after airstrikes killed 45 Palestinians, including women, children, and the elderly, sheltering near a UN building in southern Gaza. Following an international court ruling to cease its offensive in Rafa, Israel continued its assaults. Despite being told the area was safe, Palestinians were bombed in a displaced people's camp, raising questions about safe zones. The Israelis claimed they targeted a Hamas compound killing senior officials, but the attack led to civilian casualties and a mass casualty event.
Challenges in Aid Delivery to Gaza
Aid deliveries to Gaza faced obstacles as crossing points were sealed, preventing essential supplies from reaching those in need. Despite the availability of key crossings such as Rafa and Karam Abu Salim, aid distribution was hindered by political issues. Egypt's control of the Rafa crossing, which should be a demilitarized zone, led to further complications. Efforts to pressure Egypt to open the crossings for humanitarian aid met with challenges amid cross-border fire incidents.
Accountability and Impunity in Israeli Actions
Accountability for Israeli actions remains elusive, with little to no convictions or trials for crimes against Palestinian civilians. The lack of consequences for Israeli military personnel reflects a pattern of impunity. Instances of violence, including killings of civilians and journalists, often go unpunished, perpetuating a sense of immunity within the Israeli army. The failure to address past atrocities raises concerns about ongoing violence and the lack of justice for victims.
Days after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to stop its operation in Rafah, Israel hit a tent camp there, killing more than 45 displaced people. As the world condemns the attack, Israel’s war on Gaza continues.
In this episode:
Akram Al Satarri, Freelance journalist
Imran Khan, (@ajimran) Al Jazeera Senior Correspondent
Episode credits:
This episode was produced by David Enders and Khaled Soltan, with Manahil Naveed, Catherine Nouhan, and our host Malika Bilal.
It was edited by Amy Walters.
Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Aya Elmileik and Adam Abou-Gad is our engagement producer.
Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio.