The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, expressed profound shock and condemnation in response to recent statements made by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Yoel Smotrich regarding the famine in Gaza. According to Smotrich, who spoke at a conference on the Gaza Strip, the starvation of two million Palestinians might be considered “justified and moral” if it could help secure the release of hostages held by Hamas since their offensive began on October 7.
UN spokesman Jeremy Laurence condemned Smotrich’s remarks as incitements to hatred against innocent civilians and a dangerous call for war crimes. Laurence emphasized that using starvation as a method of warfare constitutes a war crime and urged an immediate investigation by the Israeli authorities into such statements.
The ongoing war in Gaza, which erupted following Hamas attacks on October 7 and has seen extensive retaliation by Israel, has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis. Nearly 2.4 million residents in the besieged enclave are experiencing severe food shortages and displacement. The conflict has led to significant casualties on both sides, including the death of 1,198 Israelis and nearly 40,000 Palestinians, according to various sources.
In light of the escalating crisis, Laurence reiterated calls for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Source: ANA-MPA, Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
