UN blacklists Israel for harming children

The United Nations has decided to include Israel on a blacklist of countries and organizations responsible for harming children in conflict zones. The decision follows ongoing reports of civilian casualties during Israel’s extended military campaign in Gaza.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres conveyed this decision to Maj. Gen. Hedi Silberman, the Israeli army’s attache in Washington, U.S., according to Israel National News. The report suggests that Israel’s addition to the blacklist is expected to lead to significant diplomatic repercussions, including potential arms embargoes from various countries.

At least 36,731 Palestinians reportedly killed by Israel

Israel’s military operations in Gaza, now in their 245th day, have resulted in the deaths of at least 36,731 Palestinians, with women, children, and infants comprising 71% of the casualties, according to Palestinian sources. Additionally, 83,530 Palestinians have been wounded, with over 10,000 believed to be buried under the rubble of bombed areas.

The blacklist, which already includes Russia and terrorist organizations like Daesh, Al-Qaida, and Boko Haram, is slated for publication next week. Although the list may not explicitly name Israel, it is expected to reference “Israeli security forces” as the responsible entity.

The UN Security Council had previously called for an immediate cease-fire, but Israel has continued its operations in Gaza since October 7, 2023. The prolonged conflict has devastated large areas of Gaza, exacerbated by a blockade restricting access to essential supplies such as food, clean water, and medicine.

Israel’s actions in Gaza have drawn accusations of genocide, and the International Court of Justice recently ordered Israel to cease its operations in the southern city of Rafah, where over a million Palestinians had taken refuge.