Lithuanian Foreign Minister asserts that Israel's move to seize Gaza will exacerbate humanitarian predicament
In recent days, the international community has expressed strong concern over Israel's plan to seize control of Gaza City. The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry, along with Germany, Belgium, China, the United Kingdom, and the United Nations, has criticized the move, urging Israel to provide adequate supplies to the population in the Gaza Strip and respect the principles of international law.
Turkey has also joined the chorus of condemnation, calling on the international community to prevent Israel's plan, viewing it as a potential escalation that could worsen the humanitarian crisis in the area. Hamas considers the seizure of Gaza City a "sacrifice" of hostages still being held on Palestinian territory.
The UN Security Council has convened to discuss the issue, with diplomats and humanitarian coordinators warning of a "further human toll" and describing the potential humanitarian disaster in Gaza as threatening starvation and widespread suffering. Reports have emerged about civilians and aid recipients being targeted near distribution centers, and there is concern that ongoing strikes in and around Gaza City will exacerbate casualties and block independent verification, violating international humanitarian law.
Arab and Muslim countries, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, have issued joint statements condemning the plan, labeling it a violation of international legitimacy and law. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has expressed deep distress over escalating violence and called Israel's plan an action that risks prolonging the conflict, worsening the famine, displacement, and death of millions. They reaffirm the call for an immediate and sustained ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian access.
Despite Israel's approval of expanded military offensives to seize control of Gaza City, there is significant international pressure for restraint due to humanitarian concerns. A joint EU response to Israel's decision, according to the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry, would send a strong signal to return to negotiations and work towards a sustainable ceasefire.
The Lithuanian Foreign Ministry insists on long-term solutions implementing the two-state solution through negotiations with international partners. They emphasize the importance of Israel respecting the principles of international law in exercising its right to defend itself and release hostages still held by Hamas.
In summary, the plan to seize Gaza City is viewed internationally as a dangerous and destabilizing measure that risks intensifying an already dire humanitarian crisis. Widespread calls for ceasefire, humanitarian access, and respect for international law aim to reduce civilian suffering and bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
- The General News has reported widespread opinions that consider Israel's plan to seize Gaza City a potential escalation, worsening the humanitarian crisis in the area and violating international humanitarian law.
- In the realm of Politics, the international community, including Arab and Muslim countries, are urging Israel to respect international law and work towards a sustainable ceasefire, as they view the plan to seize Gaza City as a threat to the principles of international legitimacy.
