In recent developments, the contrasting responses from the United States towards the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza have come under scrutiny, with calls for a more balanced approach towards achieving peace in both regions. While the U.S. has condemned the loss of civilian lives in the Security Council, it has emphasized that the wars in Gaza and Ukraine are distinct.

The spokesperson for Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield, Nate Evans, acknowledged the differences between the conflicts, citing Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and Israel's response to a Hamas attack as key factors. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller also highlighted disparities, pointing out that the Ukrainian military did not use civilian sites for headquarters, unlike Hamas.

However, critics argue that there are clear parallels in terms of human rights abuses and violations of international law in both wars. The handling of these conflicts by the U.S. government has been labeled as hypocritical by experts, questioning the different approaches taken to pursue an end to each conflict.

Dr. Peake, assistant director of UCLA's Promise Institute for Human Rights, noted the stark contrast in U.S. involvement and accountability-seeking efforts. While the U.S. has played a central role in international efforts for ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict, it has reportedly hindered resolutions and softened statements related to the Gaza conflict to present Israel as a more reasonable party.

The U.S. has vetoed three U.N. Security Council resolutions that called for humanitarian pauses or immediate ceasefires in Gaza, while it has supported similar resolutions for Ukraine that were vetoed by Russia. The U.S. has defended its opposition to these resolutions, stating a focus on Israel's right to defend itself and suggesting diplomatic approaches would be more effective.

However, as negotiations continue, Israel has escalated its bombardment in Gaza, leading to increased civilian casualties. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's insistence on continuing the war until Hamas is destroyed has faced skepticism. Recent Israeli strikes on schools and residential areas have resulted in the deaths of dozens of Palestinians, including women and children.

Critics have called on the U.S. to take a stronger stance and condemn these attacks, urging President Biden to take decisive action. Meanwhile, reports indicate that the Biden administration has agreed to send hundreds of 500-pound bombs to Israel, highlighting the complexities of the U.S. position on the conflict.

Dr. Peake emphasized the significance of addressing civilian casualties, particularly in Gaza, where The Lancet, a leading medical journal, estimates the death toll to be 186,000. Calling for tangible steps, she suggested that cutting off weapons supply or funding until a ceasefire is achieved could be decisive actions by the U.S.

As the world continues to witness the devastating impacts of the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, the United States faces mounting criticism over its handling of the situations. The differing responses towards the two wars have raised questions about the consistency and efficacy of the U.S.'s approach to achieving peace and protecting civilian lives.