Human Rights Watch (HRW) has strongly condemned international inaction in response to Gaza’s growing humanitarian catastrophe, charging that silence and inaction amount to “anti-Palestinian bias” rather than neutral or pro-Israel positions. HRW released its statement as the death toll has passed 38,000 with civilian casualties being the primary victims.
Tirana Hassan, Executive Director of Human Rights Watch (HRW) New York office, noted during a press briefing at their New York headquarters that powerful nations’ failure to condemn or act against Gaza’s widespread suffering reveals an unfortunate double standard.
Hassan stated, “when governments claim they are striking a balance in their approach, this usually means avoiding accountability. Let us be clear: inaction in response to mass atrocities does not constitute neutrality but complicity which is inexorably anti-Palestinian.”
HRW’s remarks follow months of criticism directed against the United States, European Union, and other major powers for their continued diplomatic and military support of Israel despite mounting evidence of civilian casualties, destruction of infrastructure and obstruction of humanitarian aid.
Recent UN reports indicate that over 70% of Gaza’s population has been uprooted since the start of conflict in October 2023, hospitals being reduced to emergency triage centers, clean water being scarcer and food insecurity reaching critical levels.
Hassan noted that Human Rights Watch had documented widespread violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza, such as attacks against civilian areas, forced displacement and collective punishment. She added: “Each day that passes without meaningful intervention only strengthens perceptions that Palestinian lives are less valued on a global stage.”
Organization of American States has called upon the UN Security Council to take immediate steps, such as imposing an arms embargo against all parties who violate international law and referring Gaza’s situation directly to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Israel has repeatedly stated that its operations against Hamas aim to dismantle their militant infrastructure and adhere to international law; however, HRW and other rights groups argue otherwise, noting the scale of destruction and civilian deaths caused by Israeli forces’ operations.
Hassan noted, however, that even war has rules which must be observed and adhered to with dignity in Gaza. Unfortunately, these are being flouted with complete impunity by both sides.
HRW director also lambasted some Arab governments for offering lip service but lacking tangible action, while calling for regional accountability along with international responsibility.
HRW reiterated its stance that justice must not be selective. Hassan stated, “this issue is about human rights – and the world is failing.