In a recent development, 298 prominent personalities from around the globe have penned a letter to the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, condemning the actions of Israel and expressing their support for the people of Palestine.
The letter, which was sent amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the West Bank, calls for immediate intervention from the United Nations to put an end to what they describe as “war crimes and brutal atrocities” committed by Israel.
The signatories of the letter highlight the devastating impact of the conflict on civilians. They report that more than 3,500 Palestinians have been killed and over 12,000 injured in Gaza alone. In the West Bank, nearly 70 people have been killed and 1,300 injured, with civilians making up the majority of victims in both regions.
The letter accuses Israel of knowingly violating international law by targeting civilian infrastructure such as residential buildings, schools, hospitals, ambulances, mosques, roads filled with fleeing people, and food factories. It also alleges that Israel has directly targeted civilian gatherings.
The signatories further claim that Israel has used white phosphorus in densely populated urban areas in Gaza and Lebanon. This substance, which is illegal to use, can cause severe injuries to civilians and burn houses indiscriminately when exploded in the air.
The letter paints a grim picture of the situation in Gaza, describing it as being under complete siege and continuous bombardment. With hospitals overflowing, medical supplies running low, electricity and water cut off by Israel, and food supplies dwindling due to the siege, they describe the humanitarian situation as desperate.
The letter concludes with a call to action for Guterres and the United Nations. The signatories urge them to contain Israel, establish an immediate ceasefire, arrange for immediate delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and hold Israel accountable for its actions. They warn that until this happens, Israel will continue to kill and maim people without fear of punishment.
News ID : 2551