The United Nations has added the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to its blacklist for the first time, along with Hamas and Islamic Jihad, for serious violations against children. Virginia Gamba, the U.N. Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflicts, coordinated the annual report that includes Israel. The report highlights the dire situation in Gaza, where children are the most impacted by the conflict. Israel has been accused of killing and maiming children, attacking schools and hospitals, and using explosive weapons in populated areas.
The U.N. documented nearly 2,300 Palestinian children’s deaths, with allegations primarily against Israeli forces. Israel’s inclusion in the blacklist has caused outrage, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accusing the U.N. of siding with Hamas. Despite the backlash, Gamba emphasizes the importance of protecting children in conflict zones and hopes for Israel to collaborate with the U.N. to prevent further violations. The consequences of being on the blacklist could lead to sanctions for individuals involved in the violations against children.
Gamba remains hopeful that justice will prevail for the victims, emphasizing the need for accountability and international cooperation. Israel’s actions in Gaza are under scrutiny, but the path to redemption lies in working with organizations like the U.N. to protect innocent lives.