MOSCOW: Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov issued a stark warning regarding Israel’s purported plans for a ground invasion in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, asserting that such actions could precipitate “ethnic cleansing” of Palestinians.
Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkiye, Lavrov condemned the ongoing tragedy in Gaza, expressing deep concern over the potential ramifications of Israeli military operations.
Lavrov emphasized Moscow’s apprehension regarding Israeli intentions in Rafah, highlighting the risk of mass displacement should the operation proceed. He underscored Egypt’s rejection of a potential influx of refugees, branding any such scenario as tantamount to ethnic cleansing.
Furthermore, Lavrov criticized Israel’s leadership for prioritizing the security of the Jewish state over the establishment of a Palestinian state, a stance he deemed contradictory to international norms and principles of justice. He decried the disregard for Palestinian rights and ancestral lands, condemning Israeli actions as a blatant violation of UN resolutions and common decency.
In addition to addressing the situation in Gaza, Lavrov called for increased attention to the escalating tensions in the West Bank, where Israeli military raids against Palestinians have become alarmingly frequent. The continued aggression exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in the region, compounding the suffering of Palestinian civilians.
The backdrop to Lavrov’s remarks is Israel’s military offensive launched in October 2023, which has resulted in a staggering loss of Palestinian lives, extensive destruction, and widespread displacement. The blockade imposed on the Gaza Strip has further compounded the humanitarian plight, pushing its population, particularly those in northern Gaza, to the brink of starvation.
As the international community grapples with the escalating crisis in the region, Russia’s condemnation of Israeli actions underscores the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict and upholding the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people.
