Eran Etzion, a former senior advisor who served under four Israeli prime ministers, is raising alarm over the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) actions in northern Gaza, suggesting they may amount to war crimes. Known for his critical stance against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Etzion’s extensive public service background lends weight to his concerns.
During our interview at his home in Shoresh, Israel, amidst the calm of an autumn morning, Etzion emphasized the moral responsibility of soldiers and officers in the IDF. “They should refuse any orders that could be seen as war crimes,” he asserted. “If I were a soldier, I would do the same. Every Israeli soldier should stand up against such actions.”
As we spoke, the situation in the Gaza neighborhood of Jabalia escalated dramatically. Medical professionals at the Indonesian Hospital there have been sending urgent pleas for aid, describing dire conditions. One exhausted nurse reported, “We have no water. We’ve contacted the Israeli forces for help, but they deny our requests. It’s incredibly bad, and we don’t know what tomorrow holds.”
Tens of thousands are fleeing Jabalia as the Israeli military continues its offensive, which they claim targets Hamas regrouping efforts. Etzion expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and its impact on civilians. “There’s a dangerous erosion of norms. A sense of rage and a desire for revenge is palpable,” he reflected, linking these emotions to the trauma experienced in Israel after the October 7 attacks by Hamas, which resulted in around 1,200 Israeli fatalities and over 200 hostages taken.
He argued that while feelings of vengeance are understandable, it is crucial for Israel, as a sovereign state, to adhere to international law. “We’re not a militia or a gang. We have history, morals, and values. We must operate under international law if we wish to remain part of the international community.”
Etzion speaks from personal experience, with family members currently serving in the IDF. “As a concerned citizen, I want to ensure that no soldier engages in potential war crimes,” he stated.
Israel has faced mounting international scrutiny regarding its military actions. The U.S. has threatened to cut arms shipments unless more humanitarian aid is allowed into Gaza. The UN has accused Israel of obstructing aid deliveries, particularly in northern Gaza, although the IDF has vehemently denied allegations of famine as a weapon of war.
Renowned war crimes lawyer Prof. Philippe Sands KC weighed in on the situation, asserting that Israel’s current military actions violate international law. “Any response must be proportionate, distinguishing between civilians and military targets. No one can ignore the potential for crimes occurring right now in Gaza, just as we cannot overlook what transpired on October 7.”
Sands highlighted the global failure of international law in multiple conflicts, including those in Ukraine and Sudan. Despite these shortcomings, he stressed the importance of maintaining a legal framework, cautioning against abandoning the system entirely.
The IDF declined an interview request but reiterated its commitment to operate according to international law. Meanwhile, humanitarian organizations continue to document the escalating suffering of civilians in Gaza, further questioning official narratives.
This evolving situation remains complex and troubling, with calls for accountability and adherence to humanitarian standards becoming increasingly urgent.
