U.S. Military Aid to Israel Enables Alleged War Crimes in Gaza, Critics Say

The United States has signed into law a $95 billion war aid measure that includes $26 billion in unconditional military assistance for Israel, despite growing concerns about alleged war crimes committed by Israeli forces in Gaza. The bill, signed by President Joe Biden, also includes $1 billion in humanitarian aid for Gaza, but explicitly bars any of the funding from going to UNRWA, the largest aid group on the ground.

Critics argue that the U.S. military aid enables Israel to engage in alleged war crimes and human rights abuses against Palestinians in Gaza. "The US turns a blind eye to Israel's brutal use of weapons testing, including 'ligament tearing' and 'skin burning' munitions, on Palestinians," said Julia Kassem, a commentator on the ongoing conflict.

The devastating 200-day Israeli military attack on Gaza has resulted in horrific war crimes and human rights violations against Palestinian civilians. Over 42,510 Palestinians have been killed, including 10,091 women and 15,780 children. The Israeli military has also destroyed over 60% of the buildings in Gaza, making it practically uninhabitable.

Why this matters: The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to widespread devastation and a humanitarian crisis, with allegations of war crimes and human rights abuses. The U.S. military aid to Israel, despite these concerns, highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics and the need for accountability and adherence to international law.

The Biden administration faces pressure over its ally's treatment of Palestinian civilians during the latest Israel-Hamas war. The administration is expected to announce findings from reviews into allegations of serious human rights abuses by specific Israeli military units, and whether Israel is using U.S. military aid in violation of international or human rights law. An unofficial panel of former U.S. officials released a report alleging "compelling and credible" evidence of Israeli forces acting illegally in specific airstrikes in Gaza that caused high civilian casualties.

Key Takeaways

• U.S. signs $95B war aid bill, including $26B for Israel despite Gaza war crimes.
• Bill bars aid to UNRWA, the largest aid group in Gaza, drawing criticism.
• Israeli military attack on Gaza resulted in over 42,510 Palestinian deaths, 60% buildings destroyed.
• U.S. faces pressure over Israel's treatment of Palestinians, reviews of alleged war crimes.
• Report alleges "compelling and credible" evidence of Israeli forces acting illegally in Gaza.