The war no one sees is casting an unrelenting shadow over Gaza, and the suffering of its people is intensifying by the hour.

With Israel ramping up its military operations, Gaza has tragically become the epicenter of what many are calling an unprecedented humanitarian disaster, a “genocide in plain sight.” Calls for a ceasefire have gone unheard as the conflict escalates, spilling over into Lebanon and deepening the crisis.

As the death toll surpasses 41,000, and with each passing day bringing new waves of destruction, Gaza’s civilians are trapped in a relentless cycle of terror and uncertainty.

Families huddle together in homes reduced to rubble, parents are grieving for children they couldn’t protect, and hospitals, overflowing and under-resourced, struggle to care for the wounded. Life in Gaza has devolved into a harrowing fight for survival, where each day brings new heartache, and the hope of relief seems further and further out of reach.

What will it take to end Gaza’s humanitarian crisis? In a world that’s watching but not yet acting decisively, is there a way to bring peace and stability to the people of Gaza?

Ending this crisis will take more than calls for ceasefires or temporary measures; it will require a global commitment to uphold humanity, demand justice, and work toward lasting peace.

What is Currently Happening in Gaza?

Gaza is in utter despair. The war has taken a devastating new turn, with Israel intensifying its bombings, leaving the region in relentless chaos and destruction.

After the targeted killings of Hamas’s supreme commander and Iran’s supreme leader, Iran retaliated against Israel with drones and missiles. In response, Israel launched air strikes on Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, sparking even greater devastation. What little remained standing in Gaza is now on the brink of collapse.

Schools that once served as fragile shelters for families are now reduced to ashes, with no refuge left for those desperately seeking safety. The northern region of Gaza is being evacuated under gunpoint, while Palestinian teens are being forced to strip and walk in humiliating lines, with no dignity spared.

Humanitarian aid—previously trickling in through borders from other countries and the UN—has been largely cut off. Attacks on hospitals, schools, and aid tents continue without warning, intensifying daily to an unimaginable level, as if Gaza itself is being systematically erased.

The fear, grief, and despair of Gaza’s people are overwhelming as they witness their world disappearing, wondering if anyone will stand up to end their suffering.

Enduring the Unthinkable: The Human Toll of Gaza’s Crisis

What is unfolding in Gaza goes beyond the realm of conflict; it is devastation on an unimaginable scale. According to official sources, thousands are under relentless bombardment, with civilians struggling to survive amidst rapidly deteriorating conditions. 

Reports from the UN Human Rights Office and other humanitarian bodies reveal scenes of people huddling in makeshift shelters, often constructed from whatever they can find, such as plastic bags and wooden scraps. 

Families are forced to endure shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies while constantly moving to escape the latest round of airstrikes. For many, life now means seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters or ruined schools, only to see these places targeted again in continued attacks.

One heart-wrenching account comes from an official at the UN, who described watching over a hundred children chase after a lone food cart—a tragic reminder of how scarce resources have become for Gaza’s 2 million residents, half of whom are children. 

The scarcity of aid is felt even more as supplies that manage to cross borders are limited by the dangerous conditions. Meanwhile, hospitals struggle to function with dwindling medical supplies, unable to treat the increasing number of casualties, and some have faced attacks themselves, leaving thousands without essential care.

Even the basics of humanitarian aid are now nearly impossible to deliver effectively, hindered by severe restrictions on movement and escalations in violence. Representatives from the UN have voiced that an immediate ceasefire and an “enabling environment” for aid are the only ways to provide an effective humanitarian response in Gaza. 

Without political commitment, the efforts of humanitarian workers on the ground cannot meet the overwhelming needs of Gaza’s population. The international community has called repeatedly for a lasting resolution, emphasizing the severe risks of disease outbreaks due to unsafe sanitary conditions and lack of vaccinations—conditions that many officials warn could lead to even more tragic losses if urgent action is not taken.

What Will It Take To End the Gaza Humanitarian Crisis?

Ceasefire!

Humanitarian organizations and leaders around the world are unanimous: Gaza needs an immediate ceasefire to protect civilians and enable lifesaving aid. Without one, the consequences may spiral further into catastrophe.

As Dr. Tedros urges, protecting hospitals, health workers, and patients is the most fundamental step in averting a deepening humanitarian crisis.

Ending this crisis requires international voices to unite for Gaza. Leading powers, including the U.S., European nations, Russia, and others, must unite to amplify calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian protection. Only with coordinated global pressure can diplomatic efforts potentially lead to sustainable peace and end suffering.

A ceasefire alone is not enough; there must be accessible and safe channels for humanitarian aid currently restricted at border crossings.

This blockade prevents access to essential items like food, water, and medical supplies, violating the fundamental rights and dignity of those in Gaza.

World leaders must come to the table, with ceasefire negotiations as a non-negotiable first step. If left unchecked, the scale of this crisis could destabilize the region and escalate into larger global conflicts. Immediate, concerted action is critical—not just to prevent further suffering but also to work toward a stable, humane future for Gaza and the region.

Ending the suffering requires not just diplomatic words but concrete actions from all parties involved, focusing on peace, protection of human rights, and preservation of life.

Since Yogi Adityanath assumed office as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in 2017, the state has witnessed a significant rise in the number of police encounters, sparking intense debate and concerns over human rights violations and extrajudicial killings. While the government argues that these encounters are a necessary tool to combat crime, critics and human rights organizations contend that they raise serious questions about due process, transparency, and the rule of law.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh has experienced a surge in reported encounters between the police and alleged criminals. These encounters often involve suspects in cases ranging from organized crime to petty offenses. The encounters typically result in the death of the alleged criminals, with the police claiming self-defence or retaliatory action.

An investigation of police records by The Indian Express reveals that since March 2017, when Yogi Adityanath took charge, and till date, the state has witnessed 186 encounters. This works out to more than one alleged criminal being killed by the police every 15 days.

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Supporters of Police Encounters

Supporters of these encounters argue that they have contributed to a decrease in crime rates and instilled a sense of safety among the public. The government points to statistics showing a decline in major crimes as evidence of the effectiveness of this approach. However, critics remain skeptical about the veracity of these claims and emphasize the need for a thorough and impartial investigation into each encounter.

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Human Rights Organizations on Police Encounters

Human rights organizations and activists have raised serious concerns regarding the legality and propriety of these encounters. They argue that extrajudicial killings erode the foundations of a democratic society and undermine the principles of justice and fairness. These encounters bypass the judicial process and deny individuals their right to a fair trial, potentially leading to the abuse of power and the violation of human rights.

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Self-defence Claims on Police Encounters

There have been allegations of encounters being staged or manipulated to fabricate self-defense claims. Concerns have also been raised about the lack of transparency surrounding the circumstances of these encounters, with limited independent oversight or mechanisms to ensure accountability. Such issues further erode public trust in law enforcement agencies and the justice system.

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The Uttar Pradesh Government on Police Encounters

In response to mounting criticism, the Uttar Pradesh government has defended the encounters as necessary in the fight against crime and asserts that all encounters are conducted within the framework of the law. They emphasize that these operations are carried out to protect the safety and security of the citizens. However, the lack of independent investigations and public scrutiny has fuelled scepticism and calls for greater transparency.

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The Rise in Police Encounters

The rise in police encounters in Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Adityanath’s tenure has drawn attention not only within India but also internationally. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have expressed concerns about the pattern of extrajudicial killings and the potential violation of human rights. They have called for independent investigations into these encounters to ensure that the principles of justice and human rights are upheld.

Critics argue that a comprehensive approach to law enforcement should prioritize measures such as professional training, intelligence-led operations, and an efficient and impartial judicial system. Strengthening these areas would provide a more sustainable and accountable framework for crime control while preserving the fundamental rights of all individuals.

Balancing the need for effective law enforcement with the protection of human rights and the rule of law remains a significant challenge. It is essential for the Uttar Pradesh government to undertake measures that address these concerns, ensure transparent and independent investigations into encounters, and establish mechanisms for accountability.

The police encounters in Uttar Pradesh since Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath assumed office have ignited a contentious debate over the methods employed in combating crime. Striking the right balance between security and the protection of individual rights is crucial for the state to foster a safe and just society. Upholding the principles of due process, transparency, and accountability will be key to restoring public trust and upholding the rule of law in Uttar Pradesh.

In recent developments, the controversial rise of police encounters in Uttar Pradesh has gained further attention and sparked renewed discussions about the need for accountability and transparency.

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Civil Society and Human Rights Advocacy

Civil society organizations and human rights activists have been vocal in their condemnation of extrajudicial killings and the lack of accountability in encounters. They have continued to raise awareness about the issue through campaigns, public awareness programs, and legal advocacy. These efforts have played a significant role in keeping the issue in the public spotlight and demanding justice for the victims.

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International Attention

The issue of encounters in Uttar Pradesh has drawn international attention. Human rights organizations and foreign governments have expressed their concerns over extrajudicial killings and violations of human rights. The international community has called for independent investigations and accountability, urging the Indian government to uphold its international obligations and protect the rights of all individuals.

While the recent developments indicate a growing recognition of the need for accountability and transparency in encounters, there is still much work to be done. It is crucial for the Uttar Pradesh government to take concrete steps to ensure independent and impartial investigations into encounters, establish mechanisms for accountability, and provide support to victims’ families.

Addressing the root causes of crime, improving the professionalism and training of law enforcement agencies, and strengthening the judicial system are essential components of a comprehensive approach to law enforcement that respects human rights and upholds the rule of law.

The ongoing discussions, judicial interventions, and advocacy efforts are crucial in holding authorities accountable and bringing about systemic reforms. Only through a collective commitment to justice, transparency, and the protection of human rights can Uttar Pradesh strive towards a society where the rule of law prevails and the rights and dignity of all individuals are safeguarded.

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Lack of Accountability

Critics argue that the government has failed to hold law enforcement officials accountable for their actions in encounters. The absence of independent and impartial investigations into these incidents has created an environment where impunity prevails. Without proper scrutiny and consequences for wrongdoing, there is little deterrent to prevent potential abuses of power.

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Insufficient Reforms

While the government has established commissions or committees to examine select encounters, critics contend that these efforts are piecemeal and lack comprehensive reforms. There is a need for systemic changes that address the root causes and structural issues surrounding encounters, such as inadequate training, biased policing, and the absence of transparent protocols.

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Lack of Transparency

Transparency is a crucial aspect of any democratic society. However, critics argue that the government has been reluctant to provide clear and detailed information about encounters, making it difficult to assess their legitimacy. The absence of publicly available data, including information about the number of encounters, the identities of the victims, and the circumstances leading to their deaths, hampers efforts to ensure accountability and justice.

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Scepticism of Official Narratives

There is widespread scepticism among critics regarding the official narratives presented by law enforcement agencies in encounters. The claims of self-defence or retaliatory action are often met with doubts, given the lack of independent verification and the pattern of encounters being used as a means to eliminate alleged criminals without due process.

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Failure to Address Root Causes

Critics argue that encounters, as a response to crime, are a superficial approach that fails to address the underlying causes of criminality. They believe that the government should focus on comprehensive measures such as strengthening community policing, improving socio-economic conditions, and reforming the judicial system to ensure a more effective and sustainable approach to crime prevention.

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The absence of robust action on the part of the current government has led to a growing sense of frustration and disillusionment among human rights activists, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens. They argue that addressing the issue of encounters requires proactive measures, including impartial investigations, reforms in law enforcement practices, and transparency to ensure justice for victims and uphold the rights of all individuals.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently embarked on a state visit to the United States, where he addressed a joint session of Congress. However, Modi’s visit was met with huge criticism from both India and the US. Many questioned America’s stance on Modi’s illiberal and anti-democratic policies. They raised concerns about Modi’s past human rights record in Gujarat when he was the Chief Minister of the state, as well as the growing discrimination against Muslims since he assumed office as Prime Minister. As a result, there were calls for US President Joe Biden to discuss these issues with Modi during the visit.

However, the White House declined to raise the concerns regarding human rights violations and discrimination against Muslims during their meeting with Modi. They stated that President Biden would not lecture Modi on India’s democratic record during the visit. In a joint press conference at the White House, Modi faced a single scripted question, raising eyebrows as he appeared to answer from a teleprompter. Although the question was related to minority rights, Modi chose to emphasize India’s democratic achievements rather than directly addressing the concerns about minority rights in the country.

The friendship between the United States and India is among the most consequential in the world. And it's stronger, closer, and more dynamic than ever. pic.twitter.com/6B8iLCos3f

— President Biden (@POTUS) June 25, 2023

Modi’s US Visit: Obama’s Views on Minority Rights in India

Former US President Barack Obama weighed in on Modi’s visit. Expressing his belief, he said that that discussing the rights of ethnic minorities, particularly Muslim minorities, with Modi was essential. Obama emphasized that if India fails to protect the rights of ethnic minorities, it risks “pulling apart.” However, his comments drew criticism from leaders of India’s ruling government. BJP leader and Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sharma, who was sarcastically questioned if action would be taken against Obama by the Assam police for criticizing the Prime Minister replied that he would go after “Hussain Obamas” within the country first. It is worth noting that the Assam police is known for taking action against critics of Modi.

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Backlash from Indian Leaders towards Obama

India’s Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, also strongly rebuked Obama for his statement. She suggesting that Obama was the real enemy of Muslims, while Modi was a friend to the Muslim community. Sitharaman supported her claim with data, pointing out that during Obama’s tenure, he had conducted military operations in six Muslim-majority countries. At the same time, out of the total 13 state honours that Modi has received, six were from Muslim-majority countries.

Notably, Egypt recently conferred its highest state honour on Modi, further highlighting his international recognition by Muslim dictators. In 2018, the Palestinian Authority also awarded him the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, the highest Palestinian honor for foreign dignitaries.

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Modi’s Ban from Entering the US

It is significant to mention that prior to becoming Prime Minister in 2014, Modi had faced a decade-long ban from entering the US due to “severe violations of religious freedom”. He was the only person in the world denied a US visa for this reason. However, after assuming office, the US revoked the ban, allowing him to travel to the country on several occasions.

Strategic Interests: US-India Partnership

The question that arises is why the US chose to host Modi despite his democratic transgressions. In recent years, there has been a growing strategic interest between the US and India, driven by the rise of China. While India had previously adopted a non-aligned foreign policy, it is now leaning towards closer ties with the US. The US sees India’s geographic location as an advantage in countering China’s influence and seeks to involve India in its strategy to contain China, especially considering India’s existing disputes with its neighboring country. As a member of the QUAD, a group aiming to counter China, India’s support is crucial for the US.

US’ Compromised Stance on Human Rights

It is worth noting that while the US often speaks out against authoritarian regimes with which it lacks mutual interests, it paradoxically encourages and supports worse authoritarians and dictators around the world if they align with its interests. The US operates based on the principle of pursuing its permanent interests rather than maintaining permanent friendships.

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Balancing Interests and Ethics

In conclusion, Modi’s recent visits to the US was marred by criticism regarding his human rights record and concerns about the treatment of minority communities in India. Despite these criticisms, the US government chose to host Modi, prioritizing strategic interests and the containment of China over addressing human rights issues. The strategic partnership between the US and India has gained importance due to the geopolitical dynamics in the region. India’s potential as a counterbalance to China has led the US to turn a blind eye to Modi’s policies against the Muslim minority. India’s participation in the QUAD, a coalition aimed at countering China’s influence, further solidifies its significance in the US strategy.

While the US is known for condemning authoritarian regimes, it often compromises its principles when there are mutual interests at stake. This inconsistency raises questions about the ethical foundations of US foreign policy and its willingness to support leaders with questionable democratic records.