Israel using starvation as weapon in Gaza — Palestinian Envoy

The Palestinian Ambassador to Nigeria, Abdullah M. Abu Shawesh, has accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon of war against Gaza, particularly in the northern part of the enclaved strip. He said only 30 trucks are allowed to enter the city daily — nearly only 6% of the daily needs. “This deprivation of food […]

The Palestinian Ambassador to Nigeria, Abdullah M. Abu Shawesh, has accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon of war against Gaza, particularly in the northern part of the enclaved strip.

He said only 30 trucks are allowed to enter the city daily — nearly only 6% of the daily needs.

“This deprivation of food is making it difficult for the people in Gaza to even survive. Using starvation as a method and measure of war on Gaza, especially in the north, will lead to catastrophic health consequences in the short and long run,” Shawesh said.

The envoy stated this on Thursday in Abuja while addressing journalists on the 405th day of what he called ‘genocide and ethnic cleansing at the hands of the USA-Israeli.’

“The people who are still in North Gaza are living under an immobilising siege, are being deliberately and continuously bombed, and are without food, water, and medical supplies.

“Anyone who tries to flee in search of these necessities is targeted by Israeli drones and killed,” he added.

Citing Joyce Msuya, Acting Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, the ambassador said, “Now is the time for member states to use their leverage to prevent and stop violations of international humanitarian law through diplomatic and economic pressure, responsible arms transfers, and combating impunity. 

“Now is the time for the Security Council to use its powers under the UN Charter to ensure compliance with international law and full implementation of its resolutions.”

He also warned that in the months ahead, the occupied West Bank would be in the eye of the storm, alleging that Israel intends to extend its sovereignty over the area, “…believing that the upcoming US administration will support this move. This will be the final nail in the coffin of the peace process and the two-state solution.”

Mr Shawesh said the death toll among Palestinian civilians exceeded 43,000, the majority being children and women, and 188 journalists were also killed.