Explosive weapons used in a densely populated area like the Gaza Strip will continue to pose risks to civilians even after peace is restored, warns a Danish NGO in a report published on Monday.
"These remnants of war, which may not explode immediately or might have been left behind during fighting, are a long-term threat to civilians, often causing injuries and deaths long after the fighting has ended," writes Corinne Linnecar of the Danish Refugee Council (DRC).
The NGO, which is present in Gaza, estimates, following a weeks-long investigation, that explosive munitions, whether detonated or not, are present in many inhabited areas of the Palestinian territory.
According to the report, 70% of those surveyed return to areas where fighting occurred, exposing themselves to the risk of these explosive devices, which can include unexploded bombs or missiles.
As humanitarian aid trickles into the Palestinian territory, the report notes, Gazans are lacking basic necessities, and in their search for "essential goods" amid "the rubble," they may encounter these weapons.
"Only 19% of victims of explosive munitions receive first aid," the report adds, noting that children are particularly vulnerable because they may mistake these explosive devices for toys.
"Israel uses indiscriminate weapons in civilian areas, repeatedly and in violation of international humanitarian law," comments Linnecar to AFP.
Explosive munitions were already a problem in Gaza before the war, which has been marked by repeated Israeli bombings for over a decade.
"They will continue to kill and maim long after the conflict ends," the report states.
With AFP
Comments