Israel Accused of Using Starvation as a Weapon of War in Gaza By UN Human Rights Chief.
Israel’s severe restrictions on aid, coupled with its ongoing military offensive, could amount to using starvation as a “weapon of war.” Stated by Volker Türk during the recent interview with BBC. And if the intent is proven, this would constitute a war crime. The United Nations’ most senior human rights official, Volker Türk, has issued a grave warning regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In a recent interview with the BBC, Türk stated that – Jerusalem, March 30, 2024
The Humanitarian Catastrophe
For months, Gaza has been grappling with famine. A UN-backed report has now provided hard statistical evidence of the severity of the crisis. The situation has intensified the pressure on Israel to fulfill its legal responsibilities. And protecting Palestinian civilians and ensuring adequate supplies of humanitarian aid reach those in need.
Israel’s Role and Response
Volker Türk squarely placed significant blame on Israel for exacerbating the crisis. He asserted that there was a “plausible” case that Israel intentionally used starvation as a weapon in Gaza. If the UN confirm this intent, it will constitute a violation of international humanitarian law.
In response, Israel’s economy minister, Nir Barkat, dismissed Türk’s warnings as “total nonsense” and “irresponsible.” Israeli officials maintain that they allow all aid offered by the US and other countries into Gaza. However, a long line of aid-laden trucks waits on the Egyptian the side of the border with Rafah. These supplies can only enter Gaza after navigating a complex and bureaucratic process of Israeli checks. Meanwhile, Palestinians struggle to secure their share of aid, with some even drowning while attempting to reach pallets dropped into the sea during aid drops.
Urgent Calls for Action
The situation has prompted other countries, including the US and the UK. To drop aid from the air—a less effective method. The US Navy is even sending an engineering flotilla across the Atlantic to build a temporary pier for sea-based aid deliveries. If Israel granted full road access to Gaza, it could avoid all of this, expediting relief supplies through the modern container port at Ashdod, just north of the Gaza Strip.
Accountability and the Way Forward
Volker Türk emphasized that no side in the conflict should evade accountability for its actions. While condemning Hamas attacks on Israeli civilians and soldiers, he also stressed that Israel must not withhold aid supplies from those in need. The humanitarian situation remains dire, and international attention is crucial to prevent further suffering.
As the crisis unfolds, the world watches closely, hoping for a swift resolution that prioritizes the well-being of civilians caught in the crossfire. The use of starvation as a weapon of war must be met with condemnation. And urgent action to alleviate the suffering in Gaza.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of any organization or government.
