Israel Kills Two in Gaza, Ceasefire Proves Optional
The news from Al Jazeera notes an Israeli drone attack near Khan Younis killed two people, even as Hamas returned the body of a captive. This 'ceasefire' seems to function more as a suggestion for one party than a binding agreement. How many times have we seen this script? In 2014, similar 'humanitarian pauses' during Operation Protective Edge were routinely violated, allowing Israel to continue
its operations while the world was told to look away. One might wonder if the international community's pronouncements of 'ceasefire' have become mere performative theater. While some mourn the dead, the cycle of violence, often with disproportionate casualties, continues. US leaders, many of whom received significant AIPAC donations—for instance, Rep. Steny Hoyer received $134,800 from pro-Israel
groups in 2022, according to OpenSecrets.org—often echo unwavering support for Israel's 'right to defend itself,' even when that defense appears to involve attacking during a truce. Ceasefire seems to mean 'pause, unless Israel needs to kill two more'.