In a recent study conducted by Abraham Wyner, a professor of Statistics and Data Science at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, the statistical probability of the number of deaths in Gaza given out by the Hamas-run ministry of health was examined. This study comes amidst Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s claims that Israel is carrying out “genocide” in Gaza and implementing a “forced famine” by blocking humanitarian aid to Palestinians.
During an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Ocasio-Cortez defended her speech on the House floor, where she called on President Biden to stop U.S. military aid to Israel. She boldly stated, “If you want to see what an unfolding genocide looks like, open your eyes. It looks like the forced famine of 1.1 million innocents. We must write our story in this moment of what it means and who we are as Americans. And our story must be not that we were good men who did nothing.”
CNN’s Jake Tapper challenged Ocasio-Cortez on her use of the word “genocide,” pointing out its serious and specific connotations. Tapper asked whether she believed that the Israeli government or military “are actively trying, or actively intend to destroy the Palestinian people.” He further highlighted that Israel’s actions were in response to the terrorist attacks by Hamas and that Hamas embeds itself within the civilian population.
Ocasio-Cortez responded that her use of the term “genocide” was based on the intentional denial, blocking, and slow-walking of aid to Gaza by the Israeli government. She claimed that multiple governments, NGOs, and even officials within the United States State Department have acknowledged this. Ocasio-Cortez emphasized the difference between a people and their governments, stating that the forced famine is beyond denial or explanation.
Tapper mentioned that Israeli officials allow hundreds of aid trucks into Gaza daily, subjecting them to inspection to ensure no weapons are being smuggled. He also noted that the war could end if Hamas were to release hostages and lay down their weapons, asking Ocasio-Cortez if she disagreed.
She disagreed, asserting that the actions of Hamas should not be tied to whether innocent Palestinians can eat. Ocasio-Cortez criticized what she called collective punishment and argued that the Israeli government’s reasons for limiting aid do not align with statements from the U.K. government, international aid organizations, and even officials from the U.S. State Department.
In order to operate as allies, Ocasio-Cortez argued that the U.S. must uphold the principles of democracy, including respect for human rights. She highlighted the value of American democracy, which distinguishes itself from authoritarian regimes that disregard innocent lives.
It is important to note that this study and Ocasio-Cortez’s statements come amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine. The situation is complex and multifaceted, with both sides presenting their perspectives and justifications for their actions. As the conflict continues, it is crucial to seek a peaceful resolution and address the humanitarian needs of all affected parties.
