Global Outcry: 28 Nations Demand Immediate End to Gaza Conflict
International Call for Ceasefire
In a significant move, 28 nations, including the UK, Japan, and several European countries, released a joint statement on Monday urging an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza. This statement reflects a growing concern among allies as Israel faces increasing isolation.
The foreign ministers from these nations expressed alarm over the escalating humanitarian crisis, stating that the plight of civilians in Gaza has reached alarming levels. They condemned the inadequate aid distribution and the tragic loss of civilian lives, including children, who are struggling to access basic necessities like food and water.
The statement highlighted the shocking death toll of over 800 Palestinians seeking assistance, as reported by Gaza's Health Ministry and the UN human rights office.
The countries criticized Israel's approach to aid delivery, labeling it as dangerous and detrimental to the dignity of Gazans. They emphasized that Israel must adhere to its responsibilities under international humanitarian law.
Reactions from Israel and the US
In response, Israel's Foreign Ministry dismissed the joint statement, claiming it was out of touch with reality and misrepresented the situation by sending the wrong message to Hamas. They accused Hamas of prolonging the conflict by rejecting proposals for a temporary ceasefire and hostage negotiations.
Oren Marmorstein, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, stated on X that Hamas is solely responsible for the ongoing war and the resulting suffering on both sides.
US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, also criticized the statement, labeling it as 'disgusting' and suggesting that these nations should focus their pressure on Hamas instead.
Germany's Position
Notably, Germany did not join the statement. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul communicated with his Israeli counterpart, expressing deep concern over the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza as Israel's military actions escalate. He urged Israel to fulfill agreements with the EU to facilitate increased humanitarian aid.
Escalating Humanitarian Crisis
The humanitarian situation in Gaza, home to over 2 million Palestinians, has deteriorated drastically, with the population heavily reliant on limited aid. Israel's military operations have displaced approximately 90% of the population, forcing many to flee multiple times.
Most food supplies entering Gaza are directed to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an American organization supported by Israel. Since operations began in May, numerous Palestinians have reportedly been killed by Israeli forces while attempting to access aid, although the Israeli military claims it has only fired warning shots.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has pushed Gaza to the brink of famine, igniting global protests and leading to an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Continued Criticism and Calls for Action
Despite international criticism, Israel's actions have largely gone unchallenged. In May, a joint statement from Britain, France, and Canada urged Netanyahu to halt military operations in Gaza, warning of potential 'concrete actions' if he did not comply.
Israel maintains that its military actions are lawful and attributes civilian casualties to Hamas, which operates within populated areas. They assert that sufficient food has been allowed into Gaza and accuse Hamas of diverting much of it, a claim the UN has found no evidence to support.
The recent joint statement called for an immediate ceasefire and indicated that these nations are ready to take measures to promote a political resolution in the region.
Ceasefire Talks and Future Prospects
While ceasefire discussions between Israel and Hamas are ongoing, no significant breakthroughs have been reported, and it remains uncertain whether any truce would lead to a lasting peace. Netanyahu has pledged to continue military operations until all hostages are released and Hamas is either defeated or disarmed.
In a parliamentary address, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed gratitude to the US, Qatar, and Egypt for their diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the conflict, stating, 'There is no military solution. The next ceasefire must be the last ceasefire.'
The conflict was ignited when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and the abduction of 251 individuals, with around 50 hostages still believed to be in Gaza, though fewer than half are thought to be alive.
According to Gaza's Health Ministry, Israel's military actions have resulted in over 59,000 Palestinian deaths. While the ministry does not differentiate between militants and civilians, it reports that more than half of the deceased are women and children. Although the ministry is affiliated with the Hamas government, it is regarded by the UN and other international organizations as a reliable source for casualty data.