What’s happening
In observation of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, US President Joe Biden spoke out against the spike in antisemitism linked to Hamas’s October 7 assault on Israel. The International Court of Justice deemed some Israeli actions in Gaza may trigger the Genocide Convention, urging preventative measures. Additionally, fallout includes the firing of UNRWA employees due to accusations of terror involvement and the UAE expressing concern that ongoing conflict could cool the developing amicable relations with Israel.
Why it matters
The global response to Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas carries implications for international law, geopolitical alliances, and humanitarian operations in the region. Developments such as Biden’s comments, ICJ’s ruling, and personnel actions by UNRWA signal complicated legal and ethical dynamics. At the same time, regional stability is hinged on the peace trajectory between Israel and Arab nations such as the UAE, now under strain due to extended hostilities in Gaza.
Highlighted Responses
Biden on Antisemitism
President Biden, on Holocaust Remembrance Day, underscored the necessity to confront growing antisemitism, invoking reminders of the horrific events while commenting on efforts to understate the severity of Hamas’s October 7 attacks.
ICJ Ruling on Israel’s Actions in Gaza
Israel finds itself under new scrutiny as International Court of Justice suggests several actions during the conflict with Hamas could be seen within the context of genocide, prompting a requirement for Israel to implement preventative protocols.
UNRWA Staff Dismissals
The UN agency for Palestinian refugees has terminated multiple staff members implicated in the October 7 attack on Israeli southern communities, influencing the United States to suspend funding amidst pressure from Israel for the agency to exit Gaza.
UAE’s View on the Persistent Conflict
A high-ranking Emirati official expressed that the ongoing military engagements between Israel and Gaza jeopardize the newly established warm relations with Israel, warning of a potential shift towards a ‘cold peace.’
Remembrance and Reflection
The briefing also paid respects to lost and missing individuals from the ongoing hostilities, preserving the memory of civilians and soldiers who died and attentive to those whose whereabouts remain a mystery.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.