UN High Commissioner Criticizes Israeli Finance Minister over Starvation Comments
In a stern rebuke, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has criticized Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for his controversial statements about starving Palestinians. The remarks, made on Monday, sparked outrage in Germany, France, and the EU.
According to Israeli media reports, Smotrich justified a blockade of aid supplied to the Gaza Strip as a means to free hostages abducted to Gaza during the October 7 terrorist attacks. The comments triggered widespread condemnation, with many regarding them as incendiary and inhumane.
Türk described the statements as inciting hatred against innocent civilians and emphasized that such actions, particularly from officials, must cease immediately. He called for a ceasefire in the Gaza war and the release of the remaining hostages being held in the Gaza Strip.
The UN High Commissioner further stressed that allowing people to starve or collectively punish them constitutes war crimes, and demanded that such statements be investigated and prosecuted as necessary.
This development is a stark reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, where millions of people continue to face severe challenges in accessing basic necessities like food, water, and medical care.
As the international community grapples with the complexities of this crisis, it is essential to hold those in positions of power accountable for their actions and to prioritize the well-being and dignity of all affected parties.
[ JaizBank ]
