International Backlash: Former US Ambassador Criticizes Gaza Policy, Calls for Prioritizing Humanitarian Values

The former US Ambassador, Robert Ford, has voiced strong criticism against his country’s endorsement of the Israeli offensive on Gaza, characterizing the conditions in Gaza as a “terrible humanitarian tragedy.” Ford took issue with the United States’ deployment of its veto power against the UN Security Council’s resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire. According to Ford, the US policy is now caught in a perplexing contradiction: on one hand, it seeks to eradicate the presence of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) from Gaza, while on the other, it aims to minimize casualties and losses among Palestinian civilians. This contradiction, especially the use of the veto, has generated widespread international disapproval, compelling Washington to address this discord and prioritize the preservation of civilian lives.

Abdullah Al-Shayji, a Professor of Political Science at Kuwait University, joined the chorus of criticism, deeming the US utilization of the veto to obstruct a Gaza ceasefire as “shameful.” He underscored that major global powers are endorsing a form of genocide against the Palestinian population in Gaza, effectively siding with the oppressor over the victim. Al-Shayji argued that, based on the Geneva Convention and international law, Palestinians have an inherent right to resist occupation. He went further to characterize Israel’s actions in Gaza as complete war crimes, encompassing indiscriminate bombings targeting civilians and hospitals, coupled with the imposition of a blockade resulting in the deprivation of water and electricity.

Amidst these condemnations, Al-Shayji commended the heightened awareness among the younger generation, both within the Arab world and the West, regarding the Palestinian cause. He viewed this awareness as a silver lining, a “sole positive aspect” amid the ongoing tragic events in Gaza. The acknowledgement of the younger demographic adds a dimension of hope, suggesting a growing global consciousness that transcends regional boundaries in support of justice for the Palestinian people.