US Urges Compliance with International Law in Gaza After Attack on Medics

The US has reaffirmed its expectation that all parties in Gaza adhere to international humanitarian law after the Israeli military's deadly strike resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals, including paramedics and a United Nations employee. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce stated that the situation in Gaza stems from actions by Hamas, yet the US has not disclosed whether it will be investigating the incident further. Concerns grew after the UN reported that multiple emergency vehicles were targeted, leading to the discovery of a mass grave containing the remains of those killed, some still in their uniforms. Jonathan Whittall, leader of the UN humanitarian agency in Gaza, condemned the attack as a horrific violation of protections afforded to medical personnel under international law. Since Israel intensified its military operations in response to a deadly attack by Hamas earlier this month, the humanitarian toll has significantly escalated, with thousands reported dead in Gaza.

The Israeli military defended its actions, insisting they were targeting suspicious vehicles and alleged Hamas operatives. The devastating consequences underscore a broader crisis unfolding in Gaza, where more than 50,000 fatalities have been reported since the conflict reignited following a series of hostilities over the past year.