In this analysis, political blogger Maryam Yousefi Sadr examines the context surrounding the October 7 operation and the developments that followed in Gaza (Palestine).
On October 9, Israel’s Defense Minister announced a “complete siege” of the Gaza Strip, declaring that electricity, food, fuel, and water would be cut off. Two days later, Israel blocked the entry of fuel, food, water, and medicine into Gaza.
Human Rights Watch described these measures as collective punishment amounting to a war crime. Amnesty International’s Secretary General, Agnès Callamard, called on Israeli authorities to immediately restore electricity to Gaza and end what she described as the 16-year unlawful blockade.
Human Rights Watch also confirmed the use of white phosphorus munitions by Israeli forces, stating that such use endangers civilians and constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law. During the escalation, more than 447 Palestinian children and 248 Palestinian women—identified as civilians—were killed.
On October 13, the Norwegian Refugee Council stated that Israel’s order for the forced displacement of civilians in northern Gaza within a 24-hour ultimatum could amount to a war crime. Reports by Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International’s Crisis Evidence Lab indicated that Israeli military units used white phosphorus in attacks on Gaza and Lebanon. Several international media outlets, including the BBC, reported confirmation of the use of such munitions against civilians, while Israel denied these allegations.
This video provides a detailed review of these claims, statements, and documented reactions within the framework of international law and human rights reporting.
