Date: August 5, 2024
Location: Princeton, New Jersey
In a powerful indictment of recent military actions, Kenneth Roth, a professor at the Princeton School for Public and International Affairs, has labeled the Israeli attacks on Gaza schools as war crimes. Roth’s statement comes amid growing international condemnation and concern over the escalating violence in the region.
Roth, who is also a former executive director of Human Rights Watch, emphasized the severity of these attacks, asserting that they represent a significant breach of international humanitarian law. “Israel is facing a real credibility problem as it keeps hitting schools with the excuse that Hamas fighters are being killed,” he stated. Roth highlighted that targeting schools, which are protected civilian structures under international law, cannot be justified under the guise of self-defense or combating terrorism.
The recent surge in violence has seen multiple schools in Gaza being struck, resulting in numerous casualties, including children. These attacks have drawn widespread criticism from human rights organizations and international bodies, which have called for immediate investigations and accountability.
The Israeli government has defended its actions, claiming that Hamas militants use schools as cover for their operations, thus necessitating such strikes. However, Roth and other critics argue that even if militants are present, the proportionality and necessity of these attacks must be scrutinized, and the safety of civilians, particularly children, must be paramount.
The situation remains volatile, with calls for ceasefires and diplomatic resolutions growing louder. As the international community watches closely, Roth’s comments add to the mounting pressure on Israel to halt its military operations in Gaza and adhere to international legal standards.
Additional Information
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