GAZAN CHILD DEATH TOLL SIX TIMES UKRAINE’S

There’s a grim contrast in the West’s reaction to children dying in conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. In the first three weeks of war, Israeli strikes killed 4,000 youngsters, according to UNICEF. That’s six times higher than total child fatalities in Ukraine, where fighting has raged for over a year and a half.

The sheer scale of atrocities being committed by Israel was recently laid bare by US senator Chris Van Hollen. In this clip, during a hearing on additional US military assistance, he whizzes through numbers which should ‘shake us to the core.’

But the cold reaction of US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is almost as alarming. His response represents that of many Western leaders. But we shouldn't forget these are the same people who, at the start of the Ukraine war, shouted themselves hoarse about the need to protect civilians. Smaller nations, like Estonia, even pushed for a no-fly zone - though it never happened.

Compare that to their reaction over the current destruction of Gaza. Palestine has no army, navy or airforce and has little to shield itself from relentless strikes by Israel. Despite that, the West has wholesale supported Tel Aviv’s bombardment, vetoed calls for a ceasefire and passed a motion granting Israel a fresh $14 billion to continue its aggression. Most of the bombs dropped on Gaza’s defenseless population are made in the US.

So why the appalling contrast? Could part of the answer be Ukraine is a white European country compared to Palestine which is located in the Middle East and is occupied by people of colour? Remember what Ukraine’s Deputy Chief Prosecutor, David Sakvarelidze, said on camera as the war unfolded in his country. He was 'very emotional' because 'European people with blue eyes and blonde hair' were being killed.

Whatever the reason, the horror of what is happening is clear for all to see. And so too is the West’s shocking response to it. Just watch this clip.