International Outcry over Israel’s Plans to Occupy Gaza
Several countries have condemned Israel’s aggressive plans to take control of Gaza, warning that this will lead to increased casualties, widespread displacement of Palestinians, and further undermine the prospects for a lasting diplomatic solution, reports 24brussels.
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized the Israeli government’s move to assert control over Gaza as a “mistake,” calling for immediate reconsideration of the decision. He cautioned that such actions would only escalate bloodshed without facilitating the release of prisoners or resolving the ongoing conflict.
Starmer highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, emphasizing that everyday worsens, adding that conditions for Israeli prisoners are similarly horrific. Next month, the United Kingdom plans to recognize the Palestinian State at the United Nations. However, Starmer maintains that Hamas must disarm and exit Gaza to ensure a peaceful future.
Criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s plans came from Finnish PM Elena Valtonen and Dutch PM Casper Veldkamp, who stressed that such measures exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and delay a viable solution.
Germany, Israel’s second-largest ally after the United States, has announced a partial arms embargo against Tel Aviv, citing the annexation plans as the main reason. Additionally, Turkey’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the international community to halt the implementation of the Israeli strategy and called for binding measures from the UN Security Council to ensure an immediate ceasefire.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, echoed these sentiments, warning that Israel’s expansionist plans could lead to more deaths, suffering, and serious human rights violations in the region.
