aljazeera.com
Israel Loosened Rules of Engagement in Gaza, Leading to Mass Civilian Casualties
A New York Times investigation reveals that an October 7, 2023, Israeli military order allowed mid-ranking officers to authorize attacks risking up to 20 civilian casualties per strike, dramatically escalating the conflict and resulting in over 45,000 Palestinian deaths, while subsequent orders further loosened restrictions.
- What immediate changes in Israeli military protocols, as revealed by the New York Times investigation, resulted in a significant increase in civilian casualties in Gaza?
- A New York Times investigation reveals that on October 7, 2023, the Israeli military issued an order allowing mid-ranking officers to authorize attacks risking up to 20 civilian casualties per strike. This contrasts with previous practices where strikes were approved only if no civilian harm was anticipated. A subsequent order on October 8th increased the permissible cumulative daily civilian risk to 500, before being lifted entirely two days later.
- How did the changes in Israeli military targeting procedures, specifically the October 7th and subsequent orders, impact the risk assessment and execution of strikes in Gaza?
- The October 7th order represents a significant shift in Israeli military protocols, granting significantly more leeway in targeting decisions. This change, coupled with the use of an unproven AI-based targeting system and a crude statistical model for assessing civilian risk, indicates a potential disregard for civilian safety. The high number of Palestinian deaths since October 2023 (over 45,000, with the true figure likely higher) strongly suggests a pattern of indiscriminate attacks.
- What are the long-term implications of the Israeli military's actions in Gaza, considering the flawed targeting methods and the high number of civilian casualties, on regional stability and Israel's international relations?
- The unchecked authority granted to Israeli military officers, combined with flawed targeting methodologies, points towards a systemic issue. The lack of accountability and the scale of civilian casualties raise serious concerns about the legality and morality of Israel's actions in Gaza. The potential long-term consequences include further escalation of violence, continued international condemnation, and lasting damage to Israel's international standing.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline, "Israel Loosened Its Rules to Bomb Hamas Fighters, Killing Many More Civilians," frames the story around Israel's actions and the resulting civilian casualties, rather than directly addressing the accusations of genocide. The emphasis on procedural changes in the Israeli military's rules obscures the broader context of the conflict and the immense suffering of Palestinians.
Language Bias
The article uses neutral language in describing the Israeli military actions but avoids explicitly labeling them as genocidal. Terms such as "loosen its rules", "risk killing", and "unprecedented leeway" understate the severity of the situation. The use of quotes from Israeli officials is presented neutrally but doesn't adequately counter the accusations of genocide.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses extensively on the Israeli military's operational procedures and changes in rules of engagement, but omits broader context such as the historical grievances and political dynamics fueling the conflict. The article also downplays the sheer scale of civilian casualties and the statements by Israeli officials expressing intent to destroy Gaza, focusing instead on the procedural aspects of the military actions. The overall effect is a minimization of the potential for genocide accusations.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by contrasting Israel's military actions with those of Hamas, implying that Israel's actions, while problematic, are somehow more justifiable or less indiscriminate. This ignores the vast disparity in power and the disproportionate impact on the civilian population in Gaza.
Sustainable Development Goals
The ongoing conflict and displacement caused by the Israeli military actions in Gaza have devastating consequences on the economic livelihoods and living conditions of Palestinians, exacerbating poverty and inequality. The destruction of infrastructure and homes leads to job losses, displacement, and lack of access to essential services, pushing many further into poverty.