UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk today demanded that the Israeli government "immediately halt" its plan to take full military control of the Gaza Strip.
"This action goes against the International Court of Justice's ruling that Israel must end its occupation as soon as possible. It also contradicts the realization of the agreed-upon two-state solution and the Palestinian people's right to self-determination," he said.
The statement came hours after the Israeli Prime Minister's Office announced that the security cabinet had approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan. This plan would deploy the military to gradually seize control of the entire Gaza Strip, aiming for a "decisive victory against Hamas."
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Devastation in Gaza on 7/8. Photo: AFP |
Devastation in Gaza on 7/8. Photo: AFP
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also called the Israeli government's decision a "mistake" and urged Tel Aviv to "reconsider immediately."
"This action won't end the conflict or secure the release of hostages; it will only lead to more bloodshed. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is worsening, and hostages are held in horrific conditions. What we need is a ceasefire, increased humanitarian aid, the release of all hostages by Hamas, and a negotiated solution," he said.
Starmer also noted that the UK and its allies are working on a long-term plan for peace in the region based on a two-state solution.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong urged Israel not to seize control of Gaza, arguing that the decision would only exacerbate the humanitarian disaster. "A two-state solution is the only path to lasting peace, with a Palestinian state and an Israeli state coexisting in peace and security within internationally recognized borders," Wong said.
Turkey called Israel's decision a "heavy blow" to regional peace and security. "This is an action aimed at forcing Palestinians to leave their land. We call on the international community to fulfill its responsibility to prevent Israel from implementing this plan," the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
The conflict in Gaza erupted in 10/2023 after Hamas launched a coordinated attack on southern Israel, killing more than 1,200 people and taking 251 hostage. 49 hostages remain in Gaza, 27 of whom Israel believes are dead.
The Israeli military's retaliatory campaign in Gaza has killed more than 61,000 people, mostly civilians, according to local health authorities.
Huyen Le (AFP, Reuters)
