UN Security Council Members Urge Ceasefire and Aid for Gaza Amid Famine

On Wednesday, all members of the UN Security Council except the United States issued a joint statement. They urged an immediate ceasefire and a reversal of Israel's decision to broaden its military operations within Gaza. The statement emphasized the urgent need for action to alleviate the suffering of civilians.

The 14 nations involved in the statement demanded an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire. They also called for the immediate and dignified release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups. Furthermore, they advocated for a significant increase in humanitarian aid throughout Gaza to address the dire conditions.

The statement specifically called on Israel to reverse its decision to expand military operations, particularly the aim of taking over Gaza City. The 14 countries expressed their rejection of this decision, warning that it would worsen the already critical humanitarian situation and endanger the lives of civilians, including the hostages.

The countries involved in the statement included Algeria, China, Denmark, France, Greece, Guyana, Pakistan, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Russia, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Somalia, and the United Kingdom. They also insisted that Israel immediately lift all restrictions on aid delivery. This included opening all land routes and ensuring the safe and scaled operation of the United Nations and humanitarian partners.

The statement underscored the importance of adhering to humanitarian principles, including humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence. The 14 countries stressed the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that the humanitarian emergency must be addressed without delay and that Israel must change its course.

The joint statement was issued following a monthly briefing on the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. It was released in the context of the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification Famine Review Committee's confirmation that famine is occurring in Gaza and is projected to worsen.

The 14 countries expressed deep alarm and distress at the official confirmation of famine in Gaza. They stated that the crisis was man-made and that the use of starvation as a weapon of war is prohibited under international humanitarian law. They concluded by reiterating the need to stop the famine immediately and to respect international humanitarian law.