New York Times Investigation Uncovers Israeli Use of Massive Bombs in Southern Gaza
ICARO Media Group
In a recent investigation conducted by the New York Times, shocking revelations have come to light regarding the Israeli military's use of massive 2,000-pound bombs in southern Gaza. This is happening despite assurances from Israeli authorities that the area would be safe for Gazan civilians.
The Times' Visual Investigations team utilized artificial intelligence tools to analyze satellite imagery of south Gaza, focusing on detecting craters that could have been caused by bombs. The AI-powered tool identified a staggering 1,600 potential bomb craters, prompting Times reporters to manually scrutinize each match to eliminate false positives.
The investigation exposed evidence that Israel carried out devastating airstrikes with 2,000-pound bombs at least 200 times in the region that was purported to be safe for civilians. These bombs, which Israeli forces reportedly used on a "routine basis" at the conflict's onset, have an accurately targeted range, but their explosive power creates an "extreme" area of effect, endangering civilians.
Experts, including Marc Garlasco, a former UN war-crimes investigator, have raised concerns about the collateral damage caused by the bomb blasts in densely populated areas like Gaza. The pressure generated by the explosion can be lethal up to 100 feet away, while shrapnel can cause harm up to 1,200 feet.
Israel has defended its bombing campaign, emphasizing its focus on targeting Hamas and taking measures to minimize civilian casualties. The Israel Defense Forces have shared videos and photos claiming to show that Hamas is using civilian areas as cover for its activities.
However, even Israel's allies have expressed concerns about the significant loss of life in Gaza since the start of the conflict prompted by deadly terror attacks launched by Hamas. The Biden administration, while continuing to provide military support to Israel, has urged the nation to make greater efforts to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian aid delivery in Gaza.
The ongoing war in Gaza, coupled with the mounting civilian casualties, has sparked divisions among President Joe Biden's Democratic base. A recent New York Times/Siena College poll indicated that young voters are dissatisfied with Biden's response to the conflict, and some are even considering voting for GOP frontrunner Donald Trump.
The situation has also drawn international attention, with the UK's Foreign Secretary, David Cameron, calling on Israel to adopt a more targeted and precise approach in dealing with Hamas to minimize civilian deaths.
As the conflict continues, the world watches with apprehension, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the safety and well-being of both Israeli and Gazan civilians.