The Israeli offensive in Gaza has laid bare the hypocritical stance of numerous global entities when it comes to their professed commitment to humanitarian values. It appears that these values conveniently take a backseat when the victims are Palestinian civilians subjected to state-sponsored terror by Israel.
Despite the staggering toll of over 26,000 Palestinian lives since October 7, various Western nations, led by the United States, have steadfastly supported Israel, obstructing efforts for a ceasefire.
Now, a disturbing trend emerges as several foreign allies of Tel Aviv actively undermine the United Nations’ attempts to provide relief to the Gazans.
Following Israel’s accusation of 12 UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees) employees of complicity in the October 7 attacks, a number of states, including the US, Britain, and other European nations, have suspended their financial contributions to the organization. This precipitous decision to defund UNRWA, based on unproven allegations, reflects a callousness on the part of these states. They exhibit no qualms about supplying Israel with weapons and ammunition, enabling it to unleash appalling brutality on the Gaza civilian population. Conversely, the flimsiest of excuses are used to obstruct aid to a populace already reeling from months of war and displacement.
The United Nations Secretary-General has criticized this defunding move, with Pakistan branding it as “unjustifiable.” Given the apparent lack of empathy from Israel’s staunch supporters, the Muslim world, which has largely remained silent during this brutal conflict, must now step forward and bridge the funding gap. Particularly, energy-rich Muslim states, holding vast reserves of petrodollars, ought to extend assistance to the people of Gaza.
