The Palestinian Red Crescent Society is calling for an international investigation into the alleged targeting of medical personnel by Israeli forces amid escalating violence and significant cuts to humanitarian aid. This demand comes as the conflict intensifies, with recent Israeli airstrikes resulting in numerous casualties following Hamas rocket fire. Reports indicate that airstrikes have killed at least 44 people in Gaza, and a Palestinian-American teenager was shot dead in the West Bank on April 7, 2025. Hamas rockets have also injured three individuals in Israel, prompting further Israeli strikes in central Gaza.
Probe Demanded After Attacks on Journalists and Medics
The call for a probe follows incidents involving journalists and medical staff. Recent reports confirm that an Israeli strike on a media tent outside a Gaza hospital resulted in the death of a local reporter and another individual, while also wounding six other journalists. Separately, reports indicate that two Palestinian journalists were killed in an Israeli attack on a media camp. The Red Crescent asserts these incidents, along with reports of medics being targeted, necessitate an impartial and thorough investigation to ensure adherence to international humanitarian law.
Humanitarian Aid Cuts Exacerbate Crisis
Adding to the crisis, the recent decision by the Trump administration to terminate USAID contracts is expected to severely impact the delivery of lifesaving aid across the Middle East. The cuts affect critical programs in Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Afghanistan, and Zimbabwe, impacting the provision of food, water, medical care, and shelter. These cuts exacerbate the already dire situation in Gaza, where medical resources are stretched thin due to the ongoing conflict. This raises concerns about the ability of medical organizations, like the Red Crescent, to effectively respond to the escalating needs.
Geopolitical Tensions Rise
Meanwhile, amidst rising regional tensions, the U.S. is repositioning Patriot missile batteries from South Korea to the Middle East, fueling speculation about potential military actions against Iran and escalating bombardments in Yemen. Diplomatically, France, Egypt, and Jordan have jointly stated that the Palestinian Authority alone must be responsible for the post-war governance of Gaza. These factors further complicate the humanitarian and security landscape, emphasizing the urgent need for a transparent investigation into alleged violations of international law and the protection of medical personnel in conflict zones.
