In response to rumors about Israel’s upcoming military assault in Rafah, the leaders of Canada, Australia, and New Zealand issued a joint statement on Thursday calling for an urgent humanitarian truce in Gaza.
“Indications that Israel is preparing a ground invasion into Rafah give us great anxiety. A military incursion into Rafah would be disastrous, according to the three nations’ prime ministers’ declaration.
“An immediate humanitarian ceasefire is urgently needed.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Wednesday that Israel will continue its attack against Hamas in Rafah, the final settlement for displaced Palestinians in southern Gaza, following the evacuation of people.
The statement asked Israel to stop the offensive, but it also stated that any truce would have to be “one sided” and that Hamas would have to disarm in order to free all of the hostages who were still held.
The leaders added that Israel was required by the International Court of Justice’s January decision in a South African genocide case to safeguard civilians and provide basic amenities and vital humanitarian relief.
“The protection of civilians is paramount and a requirement under international humanitarian law,” added the statement. “Palestinian civilians cannot be made to pay the price of defeating Hamas.”
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