Ankara: Five members of the UN Security Council on Sunday publicly condemned Israel's proposed plan to occupy Gaza, urging swift reversal of the decision.
According to Anadolu Agency, Slovenia's UN ambassador, Samuel Zbogar, issued a joint statement on behalf of Slovenia, Britain, France, Denmark, and Greece. The statement expressed strong disapproval of Israel's intent to expand its military operations in Gaza, warning that such actions could potentially breach international humanitarian law. The countries collectively urged Israel to urgently retract its decision, emphasizing the potential threats to civilian lives and the wellbeing of hostages still in the area.
Zbogar highlighted the grave conditions in Gaza, pointing out the dire humanitarian crisis that has led to children suffering from starvation. He noted the extreme risks that civilians are taking, placing themselves in danger at aid distribution sites in a desperate bid to obtain food. The joint statement described the situation as a "manmade crisis" and called for immediate measures to alleviate starvation by increasing aid to the region.
Moreover, the statement called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and progress towards a two-state solution. The Security Council members demanded that Israel remove restrictions on aid delivery and eliminate "unreasonable visa and registration requirements" for international non-governmental organizations working in the area.
Israel's military actions in Gaza have drawn significant international criticism, with reports indicating that more than 61,000 people have been killed since October 2023. The ongoing military campaign has severely impacted the region, pushing it to the brink of famine. The International Criminal Court had previously issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in November for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice related to its actions in the enclave.