New York, United States – Israel has been recently added to the United Nations’ global list of states and armed groups associated with violations against children, as stated by the country’s UN envoy. This development comes after eight months of conflict in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of thousands of children. The decision to include Israel on this list has sparked controversy and condemnation from various parties.
During the conflict in Gaza, over 13,000 children were reportedly among the 36,500 individuals killed, making it a devastating period for the region. The bombing of a UN school in central Gaza further intensified the humanitarian crisis, claiming the lives of more than 40 Palestinians, including children. In response to these events, human rights officials have also implicated Hamas for its actions during an attack on Israel.
Israel’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister have expressed strong objections to being listed in the UN report, criticizing the decision as unjust and biased. The report, compiled by the UN Secretary-General’s special representative for children and armed conflict, aims to address violations such as killings, sexual abuse, and recruitment of children during conflicts.
The inclusion of Israel in this report has strained its relations with the UN, particularly regarding aid to Palestinian refugees in Gaza and other regions. There have been previous claims of Israel exerting pressure to avoid being listed in similar reports, raising concerns about political influence in such matters. Various human rights groups have emphasized the importance of holding all parties accountable for their actions in conflicts affecting children.
Despite objections from Israeli officials, the UN has maintained its stance on including Israel in the list of entities with violations against children. This decision underscores the UN’s commitment to protecting children in conflict zones and promoting accountability among all parties involved. As discussions continue between the UN and relevant parties, the focus remains on preventing future violations and safeguarding the rights of children affected by armed conflicts.