Aerial Imagery and AI Shows Israel Bombed Where It Ordered Civilians to Safety

Dec 23, 2023 ·

In the latest round of military hostilities between Israel and Gaza, both sides have been accused of targeting civilians in their attacks. On December 21, 2020, Israeli airstrikes struck several areas in Gaza, reportedly killing at least 28 people, including 14 children. The casualties included a whole family of nine. In response to the Israeli attacks, Palestinians launched hundreds of rockets into Israel. At least seven Israelis were killed from the rocket fire.

The escalation of violence has prompted international condemnation and calls for an immediate ceasefire. Human rights groups have urged both sides to respect international humanitarian law and refrain from targeting civilians. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged an immediate end to the fighting and the resumption of negotiations towards a two-state solution. He expressed his deep sadness over the loss of life and civilian suffering on both sides.

The violence comes amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Palestine, which have been ongoing for decades. The recent conflict began in April of 2021 when Israel moved to evict dozens of Palestinian families from their homes in East Jerusalem. This was followed by widespread protests and clashes as Palestinians demonstrated against the evictions and their lack of rights under Israeli occupation. Israel responded with force, killing more than 200 Palestinians and injuring thousands more.

The conflict has again highlighted the plight of ordinary Palestinians, who remain subject to Israeli military rule and suffer from a lack of economic opportunity and political representation. Many believe that only a two-state solution, with Israel and Palestine entering into a long-term peace agreement, will bring lasting stability to the region and improve the lives of all its people. But for now, as the violence continues, tensions remain high and the prospects of a resolution seem increasingly distant.