United Nations Human Rights Leader Pushes for Prohibition of Weapons Sales to Israel

International Rights Advocate Urges Pause in Israel's Military Operations

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Urges Action in Gaza

In a strong condemnation of the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has called for immediate action to prevent further violence and potential human rights violations.

During a session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Türk expressed deep concern over the situation in Gaza, citing the mass killing of Palestinians, destruction, and the "indescribable suffering" of the civilian population. He accused Israel of committing one war crime after another.

Türk questioned the international community's failure to prevent genocide in Gaza and why countries are not doing more to prevent atrocities. He called for a halt to weapons deliveries to Israel, stating they could violate international humanitarian law.

The criticism was directed towards the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. Türk also acknowledged Israel's trauma following the attacks by Hamas and other armed groups but expressed dismay over the use of genocide rhetoric and the dehumanization of Palestinians by senior Israeli officials.

Meanwhile, the European Parliament has taken significant steps by condemning Israel's obstruction of humanitarian aid in Gaza. They called for the opening of border crossings, urgent EU measures, and restoration of UNRWA support to prevent violations of international humanitarian law. Germany has supported humanitarian aid airlifts to Gaza in coordination with Jordan, France, and the UK, urging improvement of the humanitarian situation while emphasizing Israel's right to self-defense within the bounds of international law.

Switzerland’s National Council recognised the importance of humanitarian aid and the release of hostages but rejected motions for sanctions or suspending military cooperation with Israel.

The UN Human Rights Special Rapporteur critically condemned Israeli attacks making Gaza "unlivable," highlighting risks to civilians and hostages.

Volker Türk's call to action comes as Türk mentioned the horrifying attacks on October 7 and the ongoing hostage-taking as issues of concern. He stated, "We must act now to stop the massacre."

In addition, Volker Türk has called for Israel to account for its conduct of the war before the International Criminal Court. His plea for action serves as a reminder of the urgent need for the international community to take decisive steps to protect the human rights of all those affected by the conflict in Gaza.