Protection of Civilians in Times of War: A Theoretical Approach to the Israel-Gaza Conflict through the Lens of IHL

Abstract

International Humanitarian Law (IHL) covers civilians, medical workers, journalists, and other humanitarian actors who are not taking a direct part in hostilities. Any attacks against civilian property, civilian infrastructure, or houses shall be unlawful, and both warring sides are called upon to fully demarcate the distinction between military targets and civilians. A person whose status is in doubt shall be considered to be a civilian. The basic IHL principles of distinction and proportionality mean that targeting tactics in armed conflict should be designed to balance minimizing civilian harm with achieving legitimate military objectives. Despite these protective regimes, the civilian population continues to pay an unbearable price in modern armed conflict. The recent eruption of violence in the Gaza Strip has resulted in a humanitarian disaster, with civilians stranded on the front line. The behavior of the Israeli army in Gaza has always been at an exceedingly high degree of brutality that of an occupation force, and every day, more proof is being added to a pile of evidence as to massive IHL violations. This paper deals with Israeli violations of IHL and international crimes such as war crimes or crimes against humanity in the case of Israel during the Gaza conflict. It also shows how effective IHL in protecting children and civilians in such situations. The article also gives reflections on the Israel-Palestine (Gaza) crisis, which highlights the necessity to blame Israel and seek solutions for Gaza.