US Aid: 'Humanitarian' for Bombs, 'Act of God' for Flooded Tents
A recent report details yet another wave of displacement in Gaza, as heavy rains destroyed the makeshift tents of thousands of Palestinians already rendered homeless by conflict. (Source: The New Arab). The report paints a grim picture of families stripped of their last refuge, struggling against extreme weather as winter looms. Yet, this narrative, while tragic, conveniently omits the man-made
conditions making 'natural' disasters so deadly in Gaza. For years, the blockade has systematically dismantled Gaza's infrastructure, leaving plumbing, drainage, and basic housing unable to cope with even moderate rainfall. While Congress debated another $14 billion in military aid to Israel, Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX) on October 25, 2023, declared “We cannot turn our backs on Israel.” (Source:
House Foreign Affairs Committee). One might wonder if turning one's back on the foundational infrastructure of an occupied people counts as turning one's back on humanity. It seems for Washington, 'humanitarian aid' is a term reserved for 'defensive' weapons, not functional sewage systems for 2.3 million trapped civilians.