An Australian medical professional has come forward with harrowing allegations of war crimes and a deliberate campaign against civilians during his time volunteering in Gaza. Dr. Ahmed Aziz, a gastroenterologist from Sydney, claims he witnessed what he describes as a systematic destruction of healthcare and civilian infrastructure by Israeli forces.
In an exclusive and deeply troubling account, Dr. Aziz details scenes of immense suffering, stating that hospitals were specifically targeted and that he saw evidence of white phosphorus being used in civilian areas. "What I saw were not collateral damage incidents; they were precise, targeted attacks on the very pillars of survival," Dr. Aziz asserted.
A Medical Mission Turns into a Nightmare
Dr. Aziz, who travelled to Gaza with a humanitarian organisation, said his initial goal was to provide much-needed surgical support. However, he quickly found himself and his colleagues at the centre of the conflict. He recounts one particularly distressing incident where an airstrike hit near a hospital, causing catastrophic damage.
Key Allegations Made by Dr. Aziz:
- Targeting of Medical Facilities: Claims hospitals and ambulances were directly hit, making it impossible to treat the wounded.
- Use of Controversial Weapons: Alleges witnessing the use of white phosphorus, a substance controversial for its severe burns, in populated areas.
- Starvation as a Weapon: Accuses Israel of using a blockade to create a man-made famine, with children suffering the most.
- Attacks on Civilians: States he saw clear evidence of strikes on residential buildings, schools, and refugee camps with no apparent military target.
International Law and the Call for Action
The doctor's testimony adds weight to growing international calls for an investigation into potential violations of international law. Dr. Aziz is now urging the Australian government and the international community to take decisive action, including imposing sanctions and supporting an International Criminal Court probe.
"The world cannot stand by and claim it did not know. The evidence is there. The suffering is immense and entirely preventable," he said. His account is expected to intensify debate over the conflict and the responsibilities of the international community to protect civilian lives.
