In Israel, Antonio Guterres condemns assault on Jenin camp, leaving more than 100 people injured and displacing thousands.
The United Nations Secretary-General delivered an uncommon criticism of Israel, expressing strong disapproval of the nation’s disproportionate employment of force during its major military campaign in the West Bank’s refugee camp, marking the largest operation of its kind in twenty years.
Israel drew reproach for impeding access to medical care for the wounded and obstructing humanitarian workers from reaching individuals in dire need, according to the remarks of United Nations Secretary-General Guterres. In a firm statement to reporters, Guterres expressed his unequivocal condemnation of all forms of violence against civilians, including acts of terror.
When queried about the target of his condemnation, the Secretary-General clarified that it encompassed Israel as well. He explained, “It pertains to any employment of excessive force, and clearly, in this specific circumstance, Country’s forces resorted to excessive force.” Emphasizing the importance of international law, the U.N. chief reiterated his call to uphold its obligations and exercise self-restraint, employing only proportional force.
The country received a reminder from Guterres that the utilization of airstrikes contradicts the principles guiding law enforcement operations. Stressing the importance of the country’s role as the occupying power, he underscored its responsibility to safeguard the civilian population against any form of violence.
In an operation spanning two days, there was conduction of a military offensive aimed at suppressing Palestinian militants, resulting in the destruction of the Jenin camp’s limited infrastructure, including its narrow roads and alleyways. This led to the displacement of thousands of individuals from their residences, and tragically claimed the lives of 12 Palestinians. Additionally, one Israeli soldier lost their life during the operation.
As a result of the 1967 Mideast war, Israel gained control over the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip. These territories are sought by the Palestinians as crucial components of their envisioned independent state, a goal that enjoys support from the United Nations and numerous countries worldwide.
Recognizing valid security concerns, Guterres acknowledged their legitimacy. However, he emphasized that escalating the situation is not the solution, as it only serves to amplify radicalization and perpetuate a vicious cycle of violence and loss of life.
Highlighting the significance of Israel’s contribution to its own security, the secretary-general emphasized the imperative of reinstating hope among the Palestinian people through a substantive political process. This process should pave the way for a two-state solution and bring an end to the occupation, as it plays a vital role in ensuring Israel’s long-term security.
Israel’s reaction on condemnation
Israel’s military asserted that it had caused significant harm to militant organizations during the operation conducted in the camp, which concluded on Wednesday.
In anticipation of Israel’s withdrawal, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a commitment to undertake similar operations if deemed necessary.
This development follows a period of over a year marked by instances of Israeli-Palestinian violence. The Jenin camp, along with a neighboring town bearing the same name, has become a focal point since the escalation of violence commenced in the spring of 2022.
Furthermore, the offensive dealt another blow to the Palestinian Authority, Israel’s former collaborator in combating militant groups, exacerbating their already limited influence within the camp.
