During the recent Israeli military campaign in Gaza over the past three weeks, the number of children who tragically lost their lives exceeded the annual child mortality rate in armed conflicts worldwide for each of the past four years, according to a statement from Save The Children.
Gaza’s health authorities have reported that since October 7, over 3,000 children have been killed. The report from Save The Children emphasizes that decades of conflict, ongoing military occupation, and the blockade of Gaza have hindered the right to self-determination and had adverse effects on the development of Palestinian communities. This situation significantly increases the vulnerability of children, especially those most impacted by inequality and discrimination.
“Palestinian children and their families continue to endure an environment marked by violence, poverty, and insecurity,” the report further states.
The report also highlights the additional challenges faced by children with disabilities due to physical barriers and discrimination within society. The impact of war on these children means that their traumas will require an extended period to heal.
According to data cited by Save The Children from the United Nations Secretary General’s annual report on children and armed conflict, in 2022, a total of 2,985 children lost their lives in 24 countries, compared to 2,515 in 2021 and 2,674 in 2020. In 2019, the UN reported that 4,019 children were killed in conflicts around the world.
Former NATO Chief Calls Netanyahu ‘Worst Politician’ In Israel’s History
Meanwhile, Former NATO Chief Javier Solana made a strong statement. He characterized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the “worst politician” in the history of Israel.
Solana expressed skepticism about recent events in Israel and Palestine. He suggested these events might lead to Netanyahu’s exit from Israeli politics.
He noted that President Joe Biden doesn’t have a favorable view of Netanyahu. Biden has actively worked to discourage Netanyahu from repeating U.S. mistakes, especially in the context of post-9/11 Iraq.
Solana pointed out that there isn’t a strong rapport between Biden and Netanyahu. In fact, Biden never hosted Netanyahu in the White House.
The former NATO Chief criticized Netanyahu’s attempts to strengthen his authority through judicial reforms in a bid to turn himself into an autocrat.
