Opinion: The Gaza Conflict: Humanity under Siege

The historical legacy of Austrians obliges us to be vigilant and outspoken about human rights violations and injustices, irrespective of where they occur. We must remember our past, learn from it, and use our voices to champion justice and humanity.

With that sense of duty, I condemn the actions of Hamas, which has been responsible for recent attacks leading to the loss and harm of numerous innocent Israeli lives. The support Hamas receives from the Iranian regime — a regime that brutally suppressed its own citizens’ peaceful protests and executed women advocating for equal rights — is equally concerning.

Similarly, the reported human rights violations by the Israeli Defence Force deeply disturb me. The continued detainment and mistreatment of Palestinians, especially those unaffiliated with Hamas, stands in stark contrast to the principles of justice and human rights. In doing so, I also recognise and support those compassionate humans in Israel that call their government to moderation. Each individual, regardless of their ethnicity or political stance, is deserving of dignity, respect, and freedom.

It is with genuine concern that I observe the rapidity with which some Austrian politicians and journalists, without due contemplation, have endorsed violent measures against civilians, citing defense. Defense and revenge are not interchangeable. Justice cannot be equated with barbarism. These are principles that transcend borders and politics.

In these somber hours of 2023, I wholeheartedly align with the calls of the United Nations and Pope Francis, urging all parties to rediscover humanity amidst conflict. History has shown us the devastating consequences of silence and inaction.

We must do better.