Geneva, Switzerland – United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has urged Israel to abandon its newly approved plan for a full-scale military takeover of Gaza, warning it will cause more deaths, destruction and “unbearable suffering” for civilians.
The Israeli political-security cabinet gave the green light early Friday to seize control of Gaza City, part of an expanded military campaign that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Thursday would extend to the entire Gaza Strip. The decision comes despite mounting domestic and international criticism of Israel’s nearly two-year war in Gaza.
Türk said the move runs counter to a binding International Court of Justice ruling that calls for an end to the occupation, the pursuit of a two-state solution and respect for Palestinians’ right to self-determination.
“On all evidence to date, this further escalation will result in more massive forced displacement, more killing, more unbearable suffering, senseless destruction and atrocity crimes,” he said in a statement.
He urged the Israeli government to redirect its efforts toward “saving the lives of Gaza’s civilians by allowing the full, unfettered flow of humanitarian aid,” and reiterated calls for the “immediate and unconditional” release of all hostages held by Palestinian armed groups.
Leave a comment