Russia condemns Israel’s Gaza strikes as collective civilian punishment

DDM News

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov sharply criticized Israel’s military actions in Gaza, labeling them as collective punishment against civilians.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that Lavrov’s remarks represent one of Moscow’s strongest condemnations of Israel during the ongoing conflict.

Speaking at a regional forum, Lavrov described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as both “incomprehensible” and “indescribable.”

He emphasized the severe civilian toll caused by Israel’s offensive operations in the territory.

Israel has intensified its military campaign in Gaza, claiming its goal is to dismantle Hamas.

Hamas is the Palestinian faction responsible for the October 7, 2023, attack that triggered the current war.

That assault led to over 1,200 Israeli deaths, mostly civilians, and more than 240 hostages were taken.

Israel launched a massive retaliatory campaign, saying it aims to eliminate Hamas’ capabilities and secure the release of hostages.

However, Lavrov condemned Israel’s response as disproportionate and harmful to Gaza’s civilian population.

He argued that such actions constitute collective punishment and violate international humanitarian norms.

Gaza’s health authorities report thousands of civilian deaths, including many women and children, since the war began.

Lavrov echoed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s call for a ceasefire and a two-state solution.

Putin has emphasized the need for peace based on the 1967 borders agreed in earlier UN resolutions.

Historically, Russia and Israel have enjoyed cordial relations, aided by a large Russian-speaking population in Israel.

Nearly one-fifth of Israel’s population speaks Russian, strengthening cultural and diplomatic ties between the nations.

Russia has often balanced its diplomatic relations with Israel and various Arab states in the Middle East.

Lavrov’s unusually strong rhetoric suggests a shift in Russia’s diplomatic approach to the conflict.

While maintaining contact with both Israel and Hamas, Moscow is increasingly critical of Israel’s military strategy.

This new posture may aim to enhance Russia’s role as a mediator in the region.

Russia’s condemnation could also help it build stronger ties with Arab and Muslim-majority countries.

Moscow continues to engage with key regional players like Iran, Syria, and Egypt.

By criticizing Israel, Russia positions itself as a counterbalance to Western powers supporting Israel.

Western nations, particularly the United States, have supported Israel’s right to self-defense despite high civilian casualties.

Russia’s stance draws a contrast by highlighting the humanitarian cost of the war.

Lavrov stressed that civilian lives must not be treated as collateral damage in any military conflict.

The Kremlin’s growing criticism may reflect a broader geopolitical strategy to expand its influence in the region.

Russia also faces international scrutiny over its own military actions, particularly in Ukraine.

Taking a humanitarian stance on Gaza may be a strategic move to deflect such criticism.

Gaza’s humanitarian crisis has triggered global concern from the UN, aid agencies, and human rights groups.

Hospitals, schools, and residential areas have been damaged or destroyed in ongoing Israeli airstrikes.

The United Nations and NGOs warn that basic services in Gaza are near collapse.

UNRWA has reported critical shortages of food, water, medicine, and electricity.

Children have suffered the most, with thousands killed or injured and many more traumatized.

Despite these reports, Israel maintains that Hamas uses civilian areas as shields, complicating its military operations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the war until Hamas is fully neutralized.

Domestically, Israeli support for the war remains strong, though dissent is slowly emerging.

Global protests have erupted in support of Palestinian civilians and to call for an end to the bloodshed.

Lavrov’s comments may influence upcoming diplomatic negotiations and UN Security Council discussions.

Russia has submitted multiple ceasefire resolutions, though many have been blocked by Western powers.

Lavrov’s condemnation could reshape the international narrative around the war and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

As the crisis deepens, the need for a diplomatic resolution becomes more urgent.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) will continue to follow developments in this evolving conflict.

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