A world where children die unnoticed

Two million. That’s more than the population of Bahrain. Let that sink in.

That’s how many Palestinians in Gaza are facing a humanitarian crisis because of the long-running war – yes, its no longer a “dispute”, let us not be coy. It is a full-fledged war with bombings, air raids and worst, indiscriminate attacks on the most vulnerable sections of the Palestinian population. The Israeli siege since March this year, has pushed Gaza to the brink of famine, with children actually dying of hunger – what kind of world looks on while its future citizens die for no fault of theirs? What hurts is the blockade of aid to the people of Gaza and the wanton shooting of children and unarmed civilians waiting in line for something as basic as drinking water.

The carnage of the water line bombing last week left a row of children’s bodies, torn asunder and clutching plastic jerry cans for water. Naturally, Hamas shows demands such as the inclusion of detailed maps of Israeli withdrawal zones – a sticking point in earlier negotiations also. Other demands from Hamas involve firm guarantees from Israel on a lasting truce and a full withdrawal of Israeli troops.

Why is it that similar demands made by Ukraine to Russia is greeted with admiration and cheers that Ukraine is safeguarding its people’s right to peace and a future whereas, a similar demand by Palestinians through Hamas, is seen as stalling the process? Israel, meanwhile has made the dismantling of Hamas’s military and governing capabilities a non-negotiable in truce talks. Let the Palestinians choose who will speak for them and represent their interests. Most importantly, let us restore sanity and end the murder of innocents.