1. United States
2. Conn.
3. Letter

The Israeli military's act of deploying a combat dog against a non-verbal Palestinian man with Down syndrome, leading to his death, constitutes a grave violation of human rights. Such use of force against a vulnerable individual with disabilities is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms. This tragic incident highlights the pressing need to reevaluate the military aid provided to Israel and ensure strict compliance with international laws and norms regarding the protection of civilians, especially those with disabilities. Additionally, it is crucial to reinstate funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which plays a vital role in providing essential services to Palestinian refugees, including those with disabilities. The international community must take decisive action to hold perpetrators accountable, prevent such atrocities from recurring, and ensure the protection of all human lives, irrespective of nationality or ability.