By Staff Reporter
The Embassy of the State of Palestine is deeply appalled and outraged by the escalation of Israel’s airstrikes on Gaza, which now include the use of highly destructive bombs. Over the past ten days, these attacks have resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 1,042 Palestinians, including 322 children. This grave violation of international humanitarian law underscores Israel’s blatant disregard for human life and its continued perpetration of war crimes against the Palestinian people. Additionally, the Israeli occupation forces have expanded their ground assault in Gaza, seizing extensive territory and forcibly displacing thousands of Palestinians in the northern region.
The ongoing blockade imposed by Israel since March 2 has created a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, depriving Gaza of essential supplies such as food, water, fuel, and medicine. This situation has pushed Gaza to the brink of famine, making it one of the worst humanitarian crises in modern history. As the blockade extends into its 31st consecutive day, all bakeries in Gaza, including the 25 operated by the World Food Programme (WFP), have shut down, worsening the plight of the Palestinian population. The State of Palestine holds Israel fully responsible for the dire consequences of these actions, which are intensifying by the hour.
For the past 18 months, Israel’s relentless attacks on Palestinian civilians have left much of Gaza in ruins, reducing homes, hospitals, and schools to rubble. Ambassador Tamer Almassri strongly condemns the targeting of humanitarian workers, including the killing and disappearance of Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) paramedics and other first responders. These attacks constitute a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and serve as further evidence of Israel’s deliberate efforts to dismantle healthcare services in Gaza. The deliberate targeting of medical personnel and facilities is a war crime and must be addressed with the urgency it deserves.
The State of Palestine demands immediate and independent investigations into these severe breaches of international humanitarian law. Those responsible must be held accountable for their actions. The international community cannot afford to remain silent in the face of such atrocities, which aim to obliterate Gaza’s healthcare system and exacerbate human suffering. Under international law, healthcare workers must be protected at all times, and their systematic targeting is a direct violation of the Geneva Conventions.
Meanwhile, Israeli occupation forces have continued their aggression in the West Bank, particularly in the city of Tulkarm and its refugee camp for the 66th consecutive day, in Jenin for the 72nd day, and in the Nur Shams camp for the 53rd day. Military checkpoints have been set up throughout these areas, severely restricting the movement of Palestinian citizens. Furthermore, homes have been seized by Israeli forces and converted into military outposts and sniper positions. The destruction of 996 homes and the partial demolition of 2,573 others across these refugee camps highlight Israel’s policy of collective punishment and the forced displacement of Palestinians, a strategy that constitutes a war crime under international law.
The State of Palestine is deeply dismayed by the inaction and silence of the international community in the face of these ongoing atrocities. This lack of response has emboldened Israel to persist in its crimes, operating with impunity as though above international law. The failure of global institutions to stop these crimes and hold Israel accountable is a stain on the international order, undermining the principles of justice, equality, and human dignity.
The international community must take immediate steps to protect the Palestinian people and hold Israel accountable for its persistent violations of international humanitarian law. The State of Palestine calls for an end to Israel’s occupation, blockade, and aggression. It also urges the global community to support the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Only through decisive international action can justice be served, and the suffering of the Palestinian people be alleviated.
