Cairo: The Elders group of global leaders Tuesday called on states to take decisive measures against an "unfolding genocide" and "famine" in Gaza.

According to Anadolu Agency, Mary Robinson, former president of Ireland and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Helen Clark, former prime minister of New Zealand and UNDP administrator, issued a statement after visiting Egypt and Rafah border crossing on Aug. 9-12. The statement emphasized their conviction of a human-caused famine and genocide unfolding in Gaza.

The group, founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007, describes itself as a team of 'global leaders working for peace, justice, human rights and a sustainable planet.' During their visit, the delegation witnessed evidence of food and medical aid being denied entry into Gaza and heard accounts of Palestinian civilians, including children, being killed while trying to access aid.

The Elders urged Israel to open all border crossings into Gaza, including Rafah, immediately. They also called for the recognition of the state of Palestine by at least 20 more states by September, including G7 members, EU member states, and others, though they noted that this alone would not stop the unfolding crisis.

In their statement, the group called for the suspension of arms and weapons component transfers to Israel and urged for targeted sanctions on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and all his cabinet members. The Elders also recommended suspending existing and future trade arrangements with Israel.

The group highlighted the "uncomfortable truth" that many states are prioritizing their economic and security interests over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Robinson stressed that governments not using all their tools to halt the unfolding genocide in Gaza are increasingly complicit.

Clark pointed out the dire situation for new mothers, who are unable to feed themselves or their newborn babies adequately, as the health system collapses. She warned that this threatens the survival of an entire generation in Gaza.