Flags can be lowered over hospital blast, says State Department.
The State Department Authorizes Lowering of Flags at U.S. Embassies in Response to Gaza Hospital Blast
The State Department has authorized the halfway lowering of flags at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide in the aftermath of a devastating hospital blast in Gaza. This marks the first time the Biden administration has taken such action amidst the ongoing Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel, according to a department cable obtained by The Epoch Times.
The Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza was targeted in a bombing on October 17. Initially, many news outlets, politicians, and individuals rushed to blame Israel for the attack, citing the Palestinians. However, subsequent evidence, including images and videos, revealed that Israel was not responsible for the bombing. President Joe Biden also stated that it appeared Israel was not at fault. The exact number of casualties remains uncertain, as Gaza’s health ministry, controlled by Hamas, is known for providing unreliable information.
The decision to lower flags is not mandatory, but the cable states that “Chiefs of Mission are authorized to lower flags to half-staff to observe national periods of mourning following an official proclamation by the host government with respect to the loss of innocent lives at the Al Ahli hospital blast.” The cable emphasizes that missions should consider the potential security risks and the impact on diplomatic relations with like-minded embassies before making a decision.
According to the cable, U.S. diplomatic and consular outposts should publicly state that the decision to fly the flag at half-staff is solely to mourn the loss of innocent lives. The flags may be lowered for up to three days or in accordance with recognized customs.
The cable also instructs U.S. posts to review the language used by the host government in their call for national mourning. This includes determining whether the host country is mourning innocent lives lost, mourning Hamas and supporting terrorism, or condemning Israel. Regardless, missions must issue a public statement clarifying that the flag is being lowered to mourn innocent lives and not for any other reason.
At least one U.S. embassy, the embassy in Jordan, has already lowered the American flag in response to the hospital bombing, as confirmed by an official post on X (formerly Twitter).
The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in thousands of deaths since October 7. Hamas initiated the violence by launching rockets and invading Israel, causing the deaths of innocent civilians and taking hostages. In response, Israel has conducted an aerial military operation on Gaza, with a ground invasion expected in the near future.
It is worth noting that the Biden administration did not order the lowering of flags following the October 7 attacks.
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller defended the cable, stating that embassies have the authority to lower flags when a state of mourning is declared in the host country. He clarified that Israel did not declare a national day of mourning, hence no flag lowering. Mr. Miller expressed condolences for the innocent civilians who lost their lives in the hospital explosion and emphasized that the department mourns the loss of both Israeli and Palestinian civilians in acts of terrorism.
How does the State Department’s decision to lower flags at U.S. embassies worldwide demonstrate solidarity and empathy towards the victims of the Gaza hospital blast?
Fore making the decision to lower flags.
The State Department’s authorization to lower flags at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide is a significant gesture of solidarity and empathy towards the victims of the Gaza hospital blast. This tragic incident, regardless of its perpetrators, has caused the loss of innocent lives and deserves recognition and remembrance.
The decision to lower flags comes after initial confusion surrounding the responsibility for the bombing. It is essential to base judgments on evidence and facts rather than jumping to conclusions based on biases or preconceived notions. It is heartening to see that subsequent evidence and the statements of President Biden have affirmed Israel’s innocence in this incident.
However, it is crucial to remain cautious about the information provided by the Gaza health ministry, which is controlled by Hamas. In the past, there have been instances of unreliable reporting and manipulation of information to serve political agendas. This highlights the need for impartial and verified sources to ascertain the exact number of casualties and the circumstances of the tragic event.
The decision to lower flags is not a mandatory requirement but serves as a symbol of respect and mourning. The State Department’s cable explicitly states that chiefs of mission have the authority to lower flags in observance of national periods of mourning following an official proclamation by the host government regarding the loss of innocent lives at the Al-Ahli Hospital blast. This demonstrates a thoughtful and diplomatic approach in addressing the tragic incident.
However, the cable emphasizes the need for missions to consider potential security risks and the impacts on diplomatic relations with like-minded embassies. This cautious approach is essential, particularly in regions where tensions and conflicts are ongoing. While the lowering of flags is a meaningful gesture, it should not compromise the safety and security of diplomatic personnel or escalate tensions further.
In conclusion, the State Department’s authorization to lower flags at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide in response to the Gaza hospital blast is a demonstration of solidarity, empathy, and respect for the victims. It reflects a thoughtful approach by considering the evidence and facts surrounding the incident. While caution is necessary, this gesture sends a powerful message of support to those affected by this tragedy and reaffirms the United States’ commitment to peace and stability in the region.
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