The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports that an Israeli attack in Beirut, Lebanon, has resulted in the death of a Brazilian child.
One-year-old Fatima Abbas is the third Brazilian victim in the conflict between Israeli forces and the extremist group Hezbollah.
“The Brazilian government welcomed, with great pain and dismay, the news of the death in Beirut of a one-year-old Brazilian girl, Fatima Abbas, victim of an Israeli attack on November 2 in the suburb of Hadeth, south of the Lebanese capital” , Itamaraty said.
“The conflict in Lebanon has resulted in the confirmed death of three Brazilian minors who were victims of Israeli attacks,” the statement adds.
In September, the government confirmed the death of teenager Mirna Raef Nasser, originally from Balneário Camboriú, Santa Catarina. Before her, another teenager died during Israeli bombings: Ali Kamal Abdallah, born in Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná.
Interview on the Consequences of Escalating Violence in Lebanon: A Conversation with International Relations Expert Dr. Elena Rios
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us, Dr. Rios. The recent Israeli attack in Beirut that resulted in the tragic death of a one-year-old Brazilian girl, Fatima Abbas, has raised significant concerns worldwide. How do you assess the implications of such events on international relations, particularly in Brazil?
Dr. Elena Rios (ER): Thank you for having me. The death of young Fatima Abbas is profoundly heartbreaking and serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict. Such incidents can strain diplomatic ties, particularly when the victim is a citizen of another country, as in this case with Brazil. The Brazilian government’s expression of “pain and dismay” highlights their emotional response and concern over the safety of their citizens abroad.
TNE: You mentioned strain on diplomatic relations. Could you elaborate on how Brazil might respond to these incidents, given that this is the third confirmed death of a Brazilian minor due to the ongoing conflict?
ER: Certainly. The Brazilian government may seek to take a firmer stance against the violence in Lebanon, advocating for a ceasefire or increased humanitarian aid. Additionally, there could be a push for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding these deaths. Brazil is known for its active role in international diplomacy, so we might see stronger calls for accountability and protection of civilians in conflict zones.
TNE: In light of the deaths of three Brazilian minors in this conflict, what broader trends or patterns are you observing regarding civilian casualties in international conflicts?
ER: Unfortunately, we see a troubling trend where conflicts increasingly impact innocent civilians, especially children. The incidents in Lebanon, including the loss of teenager Mirna Raef Nasser and another minor, Ali Kamal Abdallah, depict a harsh reality where borders do not protect the vulnerable. It signals a need for the international community to place greater emphasis on preventing civilian casualties and holding accountable those who violate international law.
TNE: How can readers get involved or support initiatives that address these global issues, especially concerning the protection of children in conflict?
ER: Readers can engage by supporting organizations that focus on humanitarian assistance and advocacy for peace, such as UNICEF or the International Committee of the Red Cross. Raising awareness through social media and community discussions can also help put pressure on authorities and lead to broader systemic changes. Educating oneself on the realities of conflicts and human rights violations helps foster a more informed public that can advocate for better policies.
TNE: Dr. Rios, what advice would you give to those feeling overwhelmed by the news of such violent events?
ER: It’s crucial to balance staying informed with self-care. Focus on constructive actions, whether through education, donations, or volunteer work with organizations dedicated to conflict resolution or humanitarian aid. Finding a supportive community to discuss and process these events can also provide emotional relief and a sense of solidarity in addressing these challenges collectively.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Rios, for your valuable insights on this tragic topic. Your expertise helps shed light on the complex implications of violence in international relations and the importance of protecting the most vulnerable.
ER: Thank you for having me. It’s critical we continue these conversations to work toward peaceful resolutions and ensure the safety of innocent lives in conflict zones.